By James Innocent
Yei River County Commissioner, Emmanuel Taban Seme has told the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) to vacate the Lasu Payam offices they currently occupy, to allow the Payam administrator to resume work.
The SSPDF forces should relocate from occupying the office of the Payam administration so that the head Chief of Lasu and the Payam Director can start working in their office,” stated the Commissioner during a visit to Lasu, which borders the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Commissioner Seme’s trip to Lasu Payam included meetings with various local leaders, including department heads, youth representatives, women, chiefs, people with disabilities, and church leaders.
The purpose of the visit was to gather firsthand information on health, education, water access, infrastructure, livelihoods, and security conditions in the area, particularly assessing the state of the damaged bridges connecting traders to Yei Town.
In his remarks, Seme emphasized that the visit would not be the last, expressing hopes for a larger turnout in future engagements.
He encouraged young girls to prioritize their education and urged boys to respect their female peers, emphasizing that educated communities suffer less hardship.
Seme reassured those who had joined rebel groups that they are welcome to return home, where they can either integrate into government forces or resettle peacefully.
He promised to uphold the rights of all citizens wishing to return without fear, highlighting a commitment to achieving peace and development in Yei following years of conflict.
Additionally, Seme announced plans to construct a school in Lasu Payam in collaboration with the education department to address the community’s educational needs.
SSPDF Commander John Lual Ton Awan also urged individuals involved in conflict to abandon violence and surrender to the army, advocating for national peace.
He warned his troops against robbing innocent civilians, stating that communities should be allowed to focus on agriculture to boost food production.
Youth leader Batali Ole noted that current conditions in Lasu Payam show no significant insecurity affecting road users, indicating a positive sign of peace in the area.
A representative for women in Lasu Payam praised the Commissioner’s visit, despite the lack of formal meeting spaces.
She highlighted ongoing challenges related to education and early marriage, calling on the government to take action against child marriage, a pressing issue affecting many young girls in Yei.