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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Rodney Muhumuza

In South Sudan, a prophet's sacred stick helps fuel a violent struggle for political power

South Sudan Dangerous Stick - (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

A South Sudanese prophet — as the story goes — wielded a sacred stick during a tribal battle in 1878 and summoned a deadly thunderbolt that struck down rival fighters.

That stick is known as Ngundeng Bong's dang, and not only has its reputation as a magical and dangerous weapon lived on, but it also plays a role in the latest cycle of violence in the world’s youngest nation.

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