By Manas James Okony
Governor of Jonglei State, Mahjoub Biel Turuk, has enacted a ban on the production, sale, and consumption of alcoholic beverages and harmful drugs throughout the state.
The order comes in response to a troubling trend of overindulgence among young people, resulting in frequent brawls and public disturbances.
The ban was formally announced in a gubernatorial order distributed to all relevant state institutions, including the nine county commissioners, on Wednesday.
Governor Mahjoub Biel Turuk’s press secretary, Biel Jiek Lual, elaborated in an interview with No. 1 Citizen Daily Newspaper on Thursday evening that the state-wide ban is designed to restore order and peace within the community.
“The order has been issued and will indefinitely remain effective. The reason for the order is that young people are using these harmful drugs and it has led to violence,” he stated.
County authorities have been directed to enforce the prohibition strictly, and punitive measures will be imposed on individuals found defying the order. This action reflects a growing recognition of the social and health impacts of substance abuse in the state.
The issue of alcohol and drug consumption in Jonglei State is particularly pertinent given the state’s history of conflict and instability, which has exacerbated social challenges.
The region has witnessed cycles of violence and poverty, leading vulnerable youth to seek escape through substance use.
Prominent women’s rights activist, Kenya Mach, welcomed the ban, stating that it is long overdue.
“People who have been known as drunkards have died, and new ones are joining in to replace them. Children are being spoiled and are dropping out of school, so this move by the government is welcomed,” she said.
Mrs Kenya emphasized the need for women to engage in income-generating activities that uphold social norms, indicating a call for community resilience against substance abuse.
However, not all reactions to the ban have been wholly supportive.
Activist Kuch Isaiah acknowledged the health risks posed by the banned substances, such as local brews Siko and Makoyo, but argued that the timing of the order was problematic.
“It is within the mandate of the government to ban these beverages because they are harmful to health. However, traders should be given a month or two to exhaust their stock because the very same government taxed these alcoholic drinks on roads and in the shops,” he explained.
Kuch Isaiah also urged the government to provide alternative means of livelihood for women involved in local beverage brewing before enforcing the ban, emphasizing the importance of supporting families dependent on these incomes.
In the past, similar bans were enforced. So, as Jonglei State reintroduces this significant policy, it remains to be seen how the enforcement will play out and whether it will successfully mitigate the challenges posed by substance abuse in the community.