Ex-Rubkona commissioner arrested after alleged shooting at Bentiu airstrip

The Minister of Information in Unity State says a former Rubkona County commissioner has been arrested after allegedly opening fire at Bentiu airstrip during the arrival of gubernatorial candidate Michael Chanjiek Geay on Thursday morning.

Minister Nyakenya Johannes Keah said Stephen Salam Maluit arrived at the airstrip with more than 20 armed individuals but was denied entry by security forces and told to return.

According to Nyakenya, Maluit opened fire after refusing to follow instructions from security personnel.

She said the confrontation resulted in gunfire involving the armed group and security forces.

“When he was advised by the security forces and police officers at the airport to go back with his soldiers and wait for Honorable Chiengjiek at his residence, he opened fire. He could not accept the advice, and then that is what happened,” Nyakenya said.

Michael Chanjiek Geay, a former national Minister of Land, Housing and Urban Development, was travelling to Unity State as part of his campaign to become governor of the oil-rich state.

Nyakenya said no injuries or property damage had been reported at the time of her statement.

She added that the situation had returned to normal, with residents resuming their daily activities.

The minister urged political aspirants and their supporters to reject violence as the country prepares for elections, stressing the importance of peaceful political participation and stability in Unity State.

“Nobody should resort to violence. Definitely, all that we want is a government of Unity State. We want peace. We want our people to live in peace and harmony,” she added.

Keah also called on community members to promote peace and peaceful coexistence amid the challenges facing residents.