By James Innocent
A three-day civil-military dialogue has successfully concluded in Lasu Payam, Yei River County, Central Equatoria State.
The dialogue, brought together over a hundred participants, including community leaders, military officials, partners, youth representatives, religious leaders, and government officials from various departments.
It aimed at fostering peace, reconciliation, and encouraging the return of refugees and internally displaced persons.
During the dialogue, Unis Moriba Sila, the women’s representative of Lasu Payam, highlighted the challenges faced by citizens living in the area.
She expressed that members of the community who are in the neighboring countries desire to return home but they fear the conflicts and criminal activities.
Sila appealed to the military personnel to treat civilians with respect, ensuring a peaceful environment that would encourage the safe return of refugees.
“Many people wants come back home but they still live in fear to see conflicts and criminal activities happening in Lasu. Citizens fear to speak the truth,” she said.
Meanwhile, the commanding officer of the SSPDF in Lasu, Makur Jacob, reassured the citizens that the dialogue aimed to put an end to conflicts and should be the last of its kind.
He urged civilians to report any criminal activities and encouraged the youth to work in collaboration with the government soldiers for a peaceful coexistence.
“I want the people of Lasu to deter from conflict and criminal activities. I want the young people to report issues affecting them to the administration of the Military in Lasu and they should not live with fear because the mandate of the soldiers of south Sudan is to protect civilians and their properties,” he said.
“I am also urging the Youth to avoid being double dealers while living with them in the community of Lasu so that we have a lasting peace in the community.”
Fgor his part, Malish John Scopas, a project officer for the Community Empowerment Organization (CEPO) urged citizens to act responsibly after the dialogue.
He also urged both military and civilian, to set a positive example for the community.
“When a responsibility is given to you as a leader use the responsibility accurately and respectively so that the person who gives you the responsibility feels that his duties are implemented,” he said.
The successful civil-military dialogue in Lasu Payam marks a significant step towards peace building, reconciliation, and creating an environment conducive for the return of displaced persons.
The commitment of community leaders, military officials, and citizens is crucial in maintaining lasting peace and stability in the region.