By staff writer
Central Equatoria State Governor Gen. Augustino Jadalla Kamilo Wani addressed soldiers at the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA-IO) cantonment site and residents in Panyume, Morobo County, urging them to prioritize unity and peaceful coexistence.
During his recent county tour, Governor Jadalla visited Panyume to emphasize the role of the armed forces in protecting civilians and their property.
He also called for the full implementation of the 2018 revitalized peace agreement.
Throughout his tour of the greater Yei areas, the Governor stressed the importance of maintaining positive relationships between the armed forces and the local community.
“Let us all embrace peace,” Jadalla urged, noting that the SPLA-IO’s uniforms bear the South Sudanese flag, symbolizing unity.
Gen. Wisely Welebe, Assistant Chief of Defense Force for Logistics of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), echoed Governor Jadalla’s call for respect and cooperation between forces and civilians.
He cautioned against interfering with civilian affairs and urged the removal of unnecessary checkpoints on roads passing through Panyume.
“These SPLA-IO forces are committed to peace,” Gen. Welebe assured, explaining that their training and deployment had been delayed.
Gen. John Mabie, the SPLA-IO commander at Panyume, expressed gratitude to Governor Jadalla for visiting and reiterated his call for the integration of forces and the completion of the second phase of reunification.
He highlighted the long-standing presence of SPLA-IO forces in Panyume since 2016.
“We are your children, and we should not be left in the bush for much longer,” Gen. Mabie stated. “The citizens are also weary. It’s time to unite the people.”