South Sudan Human Rights Defenders Network (SSHRDN) received information regarding a circular issued by the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC) in Western Bahr El Ghazal State directing all United Nations agencies, international non-governmental organizations, national organizations and community-based organizations operating in Wau County to suspend their activities with immediate effect.
According to the circular SSHRDN received and not in mainstream media, but on social media, dated 1 October 2026 and signed by the Acting Director of the RRC in Wau, all affected organizations are requested to cease operations from 1 October 2026 ‘until further notice’. The communication does not provide reasons for the decision, nor does it indicate the duration of the suspension.
The directive raises concerns among humanitarian and civil society actors operating in the area, particularly given the important role played by humanitarian orgainzations, development partners and local civil society groups in delivering essential services and supporting vulnerable communities in Western Bahr El Ghazal State especially during this time of elections in South Sudan.