By Nakwam Rose
Centre for Peace and Advocacy (CPA) criticizes what he described as “inflammatory hate speech” by Cabinet Affairs Minister, Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro.
During a press conference held in Juba on Saturday, Minister Lomuro characterized nine out of sixteen counties predominantly inhabited by Nuer, as hostile to the government.
CPA Executive Director of the Ter Manyang Gatwech cautions that this alarming statement not only carries inherent risks but also constitutes an act of hate towards the people in areas mentioned by the minister.
He expressed his disappointment in the minister’s choice of words, emphasizing his role as a national representative.
“This statement is not only troubling but constitutes direct hate speech towards the Nuer people in South Sudan. Such serious remarks should not be made by a national minister who represents the entire country,” Manyang stated.
The activist called on the minister, suggesting that the unrest in Ulang and Nasir is being instigated by government officials who oppose peace in South Sudan.
“Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro, it is important to understand that the ongoing situation in Nasir and Ulang counties of Upper Nile State is driven by individuals within your government who oppose peace in South Sudan,” the activist noted.
Manyang contends that the demands of the “White Army” are not excessive but rather involve the deployment of unified forces in Nasir in accordance with Chapter Two of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
According to the activist, he believes that the persistent violence in the two counties could be managed with “wise leadership,” leaders capable of envisioning a positive future.
He accuses the government of harboring negative intentions towards the community, which he believes has contributed to the escalation of violence.
“The government’s hostile intentions toward the community prevent it from meeting the demands of the White Army. The ongoing conflict could be addressed if we had wise leadership capable of foresight,” the statement read.
Manyang emphasized that South Sudan as a nation requires visionary leaders capable of uniting divided communities, fostering unification, and promoting social cohesion, rather than sowing discord among the people.
“South Sudan needs responsible leaders who can foster peace, unity, justice, and social cohesion among its divided communities. We seek connectors, not dividers, to promote peace and reconciliation in society,” Manyang stated.