By Akol Madut Ngong
A Member of Parliament and the Chairperson Standing Specialized Committee on National Security and Public Order in the Revitalized Transitional National Legislative Assembly, Simon Kun Puoch called on cattle herders to follow President’s order and vacate farm lands.
Kun Puoch said that, it’s indeed a burning issue, but previously when they were in the national dialogue process, a committee was formed and that will sit with the farmers in Equatoria to see ways for those cattle to be returned to their origin places.
“I have not check in, but the rumors said that they are starting moving; but I must talk something that I know. I have not witnessed that, because I have not seen anybody to find out and investigate; so, I cannot talk something or guess here of hear says, no!” Kun said.
The Parliamentarian said that there have been many issues such as social issues, security issues and also natural disasters such as floods and manmade disasters which have caused threat to food security, socioeconomic issues, arguing that it is a good reason for them to delay.
Kun stated that both the state and national government are taking responsibility. He said the government should work together to let people go back to their original places peacefully.
He further stressed that both state and national governments will supervise and make sure that the resolutions are implemented. He said they have to see that these solutions are implemented by the Executive body.
“I know that President gave them an order to move their cattle from Eastern Equatoria back to Jonglei state and Terekeka, and they did that. They moved out from there. However, when they reach there, they start to go to the Eastern Equatoria, I don’t know why?” the MP wondered.
Moreover, the legislator appealed to cattle herders and farmers to live together, eat together and stay with love among themselves in a peaceful manner, because this country belongs to us and it is up to us to build it.
He also pleaded to the leaders to leave that culture of war and violence, saying it does not make the people of this country to cultivate their food and grow.
“Avoid revenge killings and violence and all armed people should be disarmed and they should be given opportunities to work,” Kun Puoch said.