Lawmakers in Western Equatoria State have petitioned the governor to review a controversial agreement they say allows armed pastoralists into the state, citing a surge in violence and the displacement of local farmers.
The state’s Legislative Assembly presented a Memorandum of Understanding to Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa on Tuesday, claiming the document was signed by a previous administration without parliamentary oversight or public consultation.
Speaker Ann Tuna Richard said the agreement regarding the Ambororo—nomadic herders who migrate across Central and West Africa—has compromised security and land rights.
Rimbasa told the delegation that his administration would not support any agreement that threatens the lives of the people. He noted that the government cannot allow any document that supports armed individuals accused of harming the population, emphasizing that the protection of citizens and their land remains the priority.
Lawmakers reported that residents in areas such as Bangasu and Madebe are living in fear and are unable to farm, fish, or hunt due to the presence of armed herders.
The delegation also alleged that Ambororo herders killed a young man last month in the Modubai area of Maridi County. These seasonal migrations frequently lead to clashes with settled communities over water and grazing land.
On Wednesday, a coalition of civil society organizations also met with Rimbasa to address a deepening humanitarian crisis in the state. Wanga Emmanuel, who led the delegation, urged the government to implement an amnesty program for armed youth to encourage disarmament.
He highlighted a breakdown in the legal system, noting that more than 48 murder and arson cases are stalled in Tambura due to a lack of judges and prosecutors.
The group further warned of illegal roadblocks where high fees are imposed on travelers and farmers, which they say is stifling the local economy. They also noted that the withdrawal of international aid groups has left many health facilities in Tambura unstaffed and without resources.
Governor Rimbasa pledged to restore government services and school infrastructure while working with traditional leaders and churches to stabilize the state’s 10 counties. He reiterated his commitment to addressing the presence of the pastoralists through lawful procedures while protecting the environment and livelihoods.