CEPO calls for probe into killing of two youths in Nagero county

The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) has condemned the reported killing of two young men in Nagero County, Western Equatoria State, allegedly involving members of the security forces, and called for an urgent investigation into the incidents. CEPO Executive Director Edmond Yekani urged state and national security authorities, military justice institutions and the presidency to ensure accountability for the killings, which reportedly occurred on Thursday and Friday amid heightened tensions following recent fighting in the county. In a statement, Yekani said the incidents raised concerns about civilian protection and public confidence as South Sudan prepares for elections. “We strongly condemn this. We call for justice to take place,” Yekani said, describing the reported shootings as unacceptable acts that must be investigated.

According to earlier accounts from Nagero County Executive Director Bernardo Gabriel Amin, one of the victims, identified as David, was reportedly shot dead on Thursday near Freedom Square while returning home from the market, where he had gone to buy vegetables. The second victim, identified as Monday Valerio, was reportedly shot on Friday while sitting with his parents and friends at the family compound. Amin previously said both alleged shooters had been arrested and taken to military barracks. The circumstances surrounding the killings and the alleged motives have not been independently established. Yekani said the reported incidents could discourage young people from participating in the electoral process, arguing that the killings risk undermining public trust in security institutions. “It seems some people or some individuals in the law enforcement agencies have adapted a strategy of eliminating young people in Nagero…