Central Equatoria State Governor Augustino Jadallah has cautioned chiefs in Juba County against issuing illegal land documents, stating they were fueling land grabbing in the area.
Speaking during a visit to the Juba County headquarters on Friday, Jadallah also ordered the dissolution of the community development committees, accusing them of creating divisions and unrest.
Jadallah revealed that some chiefs were even endorsing their colleagues from other communities to operate in Juba.
The concern comes following the rise in cases of land grabbing in Juba, igniting conflicts and causing insecurity.
“There were committees called village development committees. These have caused many issues, and chiefs have been involved. It is unfortunate that some of them are no more,” he said.
“Some of you even approved some chiefs from other communities to represent their people in Juba. Where do you get that power?” Jadallah posed.
He noted that one other cause of land grabbing in Juba was the poor planning.
“People have talked much about land grabbing. However, I want to say we are the cause. We have never looked at Juba as capital city in a broader picture. You cannot narrow the capital city in just three blocks (Juba, Munuki and Kator),” Jadallah said.
While acknowledging land grabbing as a major security threat in Juba, Jadallah pledged to address it through the committee formed by President Salva Kiir in 2021.
“It is deeply concerning that land grabbing and mismanagement have become a source of insecurity and tension in Juba County. Land is a vital resource that sustains our people and fosters development. However, it has become a source of conflict, displacement and mistrust. This is unacceptable and we must take decisive measures,” he said.
He further called on the administration of Juba County to develop a comprehensive land policy that ensures legal acquisition.
The Governor’s tour of Juba County is part of a broader initiative to promote lasting peace, unity, security, and stability across Central Equatoria State.
Jadallah held a rally and engaged with chiefs, the elders, intellectuals, youth, women, and other key stakeholders.
Juba County Commissioner Emmanuel Tete Ezbon said in order to address the previous mistakes, which catered for no playgrounds and graveyards, his administration had resorted to developing a proper comprehensive demarcation.
Tete noted that most markets in Juba do not have bus parks.
In addition, the Juba County Commissioner called for the enhanced peace, security, infrastructure development, and service delivery across all payams.
“The leadership of Juba County is committed to fighting corruption and ensuring resources are used effectively to meet the needs of our people,” Tete affirmed.