By Manas James Okony
Jonglei State Governor Mahjoub Biel Turuk has invited self-exiled activist Bol Deng Bol to return to his hometown of Bor, a notable development for civil society in the country.
Bol fled Bor after facing an attempted arbitrary arrest by security operatives in June, following his participation in protests against the rising cost of living in Bor, a critical issue that has plagued many South Sudanese citizens amidst ongoing economic challenges.
Governor Biel’s invitation was communicated in a letter dated September 17, addressed to Bol Deng Bol, who serves as the chair of the Jonglei Civil Society Network (JCSN).
The letter expressed the governor’s understanding of the concerns that led to Bol’s self-exile and reassured him of commitment to foster a safe and supportive environment for all citizens in Jonglei.
“As the Governor of Jonglei State, I want to extend my sincere invitation to you to return to our state. I understand the concerns that led to your departure, and I assure you that we are committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all our citizens,” the letter read in part.
Governor Biel’s office reported that Bol left Jonglei State for a neighboring country on his own accord, and the decision to return rests solely with him.
Biel Jiek Lual, the press secretary for the Governor, emphasized that Bol’s safety and freedom of movement are priorities.
“The governor met the secretary general of the Jonglei State Civil Society Network on September 17 and discussed the issue of this man called Bol Deng Bol. The governor made it clear that it was not his issue for Bol to leave for a neighbouring country, and he is free to come and stay in the state or any part of the country,” Biel Jiek Lual stated.
Kuch Isaiah, the JCSN Secretary-General, echoed the governor’s invitation, asserting that Bol Deng Bol should feel confident in his ability to return and continue his advocacy work.
Kuch welcomed the governor’s decision as a positive step towards press freedom and the expansion of political space in Jonglei.
“I met the governor of Jonglei and we discussed the issue of Bol, and after the meeting, it was resolved that Bol return safely. I welcomed the decision by the governor,” he expressed.
“I don’t see a problem anymore because the governor himself wants Bol to return, because he wants to address the perception that there is no civic or political space in the state.”
Civil society activism in South Sudan faces considerable challenges, with many activists and journalists frequently subjected to intimidation and harassment.
Bol’s activism, particularly regarding the escalating cost of living, has resonated with many South Sudanese who are grappling with economic hardships exacerbated by years of conflict and instability.
Efforts to reach Bol Deng Bol for comment on the governor’s invitation were not immediately successful.