By Peter Kuol Kuch
Newly appointed governor of Jonglei State, Dr. Riak Gai Kok, has committed to prioritizing peace within Jonglei and its neighbouring states as he begins his tenure.
Dr. Gai was received at the state capital Bor over the weekend. The reception was attended by Central Equatoria Governor Augustino Jadalla Wani, members of parliament, ministers from the national government, advisors, and other top government officials.
Speaking during his reception in Bor, Dr. Riek acknowledged the communal conflicts affecting local communities in Jonglei and neighbouring areas, which undermine the state’s progress and stability.
He assured that he would work closely with local authorities to engage with militias, such as the White Army and other armed groups, to encourage them to abandon their violent actions and embrace peace.
“There is no country on Earth that can develop in terms of agriculture, education, and other vital development programs without peace; peace is essential,” Governor Riek stated.
He expressed concern that the current instability in the state does not foster development but instead leads to property destruction, loss of lives, and displacement.
“If we want to achieve peace, we must establish the rule of law. I am very optimistic about working with community leaders and the youth to attain lasting peace,” he added.
Dr. Gai urged the citizens of Jonglei to embrace peaceful coexistence and foster love among one another.
Speaking at the same event, Baba Medaan, the former deputy governor of the defunct Greater Jonglei State, called on the youth in Jonglei and the Pibor administration area to refrain from senseless communal violence and instead work towards peace to achieve economic development.
“As a son of Jonglei State, I can see that the conflicts in our region are taking us backward. If we begin to foster peace in Jonglei, it will lead to development,” he noted. He believes that achieving peace within the communities of Jonglei will positively impact the entire country.
“We urgently need peace to prevail in Greater Jonglei State. If we can establish peace here, we can also realize peace in other regions of the country,” he added.
Local communities in Jonglei State have been engaged in cattle raiding, revenge killings, and child abduction for decades, hindering many development activities across the state.
The communities involved include the Murle, Dinka Bor, Lou Nuer, Jie, and Anyuak.