Upper Nile Governor Jacob Dollar Ruot Denies Ethnic Targeting in Recent Military Operations
Juba, South Sudan — Upper Nile State Governor Jacob Dollar Ruot has publicly addressed growing concerns over the government’s recent use of aerial and ground bombardments in parts of the state, insisting that military operations are directed strictly at armed groups attacking government positions.
Speaking during a briefing on Friday, Governor Ruot dismissed allegations that the offensives are aimed at any particular ethnic community. He emphasized that the government’s mandate is to protect civilians and restore stability, not to inflame communal tensions.
“The military only responds to those who attack government forces,” Ruot stated. “No ethnic group is being targeted. Our operations are based on security assessments, not tribal identity.
” His remarks follow rising fears among communities and civil society groups who have warned that indiscriminate attacks could worsen intercommunal tensions in the region.
Upper Nile has experienced persistent insecurity, with fragmented armed groups and political rivalries contributing to instability.
Governor Ruot urged local leaders and citizens to cooperate with security forces and help contain groups responsible
