In a statement issued by the Central Equatoria State Civil Society Network (CESCSN), the deceased, identified as Emmanuel Kanjo Kennedy and popularly known as Kennedy, was reportedly stabbed in the head and had his neck broken in what residents described as a brutal and targeted assault. Kennedy, a well-known footballer in the area, was widely regarded as a humble, disciplined and peaceful youth.
CESCSN condemned what it termed a ruthless murder, stressing that the circumstances surrounding the killing raise serious human rights and security concerns in Yei.
“This incident, in addition to similar cases where two other young men were killed with knives in the same month, grossly violates human rights as provided for in the Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan,” the network stated, citing the Bill of Rights, which guarantees every person the inherent right to life, dignity and bodily integrity.
The network noted with alarm that such killings are happening inside the town rather than in remote locations, suggesting a rising security breakdown within Yei. It urged security authorities to launch an immediate and credible investigation and provide justice to Kennedy’s family and to the surviving victim.
The civil society coalition further called on the Central Equatoria State Government to reinforce Yei County authorities in addressing what it described as a worsening security situation characterised by road ambushes targeting traders, abductions of humanitarian workers, and other targeted killings of civilians.
According to CESCSN, failure to act swiftly could undermine public safety during the festive season, discourage the return of refugees and internally displaced persons, and stall ongoing economic recovery efforts.
The organisation also made a broader appeal to citizens to renounce violence and embrace peaceful coexistence, urging South Sudanese “to love their neighbours and live in peace and harmony throughout this season and beyond.”
