By Baraka John
Alfred Futuyo, former governor of Western Equatoria, remains missing after his dismissal by President Salva Kiir on February 10, 2025. His whereabouts are unknown, fueling public concern.
Gunshots were reported at the governor’s residence shortly after his removal, causing alarm. State Information Minister Elia Usuni confirmed the incident, suggesting the SSPDF was involved but could not verify casualties.
“Actually, there was gunshots in the town last night in the governor’s premises because they broke in yesterday [Monday] and they were shooting actually in the governor’s premises. We have not yet conformed if there is dead body or somebody is wounded. We have not yet conformed.” Usini conformed
Meanwhile, concerns about Futuyo’s safety continue to grow. The acting governor of Western Equatoria state, Hon. Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa, has urged the former governor to come forward and disclose his location, calling on him to contact the state authorities, United Nations representatives, or church leaders for protection.
“If the former governor is in hiding due to fear, I am here, as acting governor, to assure him that there is no reason to be afraid,” Badagbu said. “He should call me, or he can reach out to the UN or church leaders for support. As a former leader in this state, he deserves protection, and it is our responsibility to ensure his safety. I encourage him to return home without fear.”
Badagbu also appealed to the public to avoid pointing fingers at different communities and instead focus on unity and cooperation within Western Equatoria.
The public remains in the state are anxiously waiting for clarification on Futuyo’s fate and whether the government will take further action to ensure his safety or provide additional information to the public.