Clashes involved two rival factions of the Pakam community.

On Friday, the South Sudan interim government confirmed that at least 71 people have died in armed clashes between two rival tribes over control of grazing lands in Lakes State.

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Authorities reported that the fighting began around 4:00 a.m. near Rumbek, the regional capital. The clashes resulted in numerous casualties and prompted government intervention.

The Ministry of Information stated that the death toll has reached 71, although the final count is still pending verification. Among the dead are a captain and three non-commissioned officers.

Hours earlier, police spokesman Elijah Mabor had reported at least 27 dead and nine wounded. He explained that the clashes involved two rival factions of the Pakam community.

Mabor asserted that the fighting ceased after the deployment of security forces to the area. The operation aimed to prevent further attacks and potential reprisals.

The violence comes as the country prepares for general elections scheduled for December 22. These elections will be the first held since South Sudan’s independence in 2011.

The Lakes State experiences frequent conflicts over grazing rights, agricultural land, and historical disputes. This situation exacerbates political tensions that threaten the peace agreement signed in 2018.

teleSUR: JP

Source: EFE

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