A group of South Sudanese musicians plans to hold a concert for peace in the town of Akobo in eastern South Sudan, saying they want to give hope and encouragement to the citizens for peace.
The South Sudan Artists Association in Ethiopia (SSAAE) announced that the concert would take place at the commissioner’s compound on Saturday, 8 August, starting at 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.
Paul Ruot Bayoch (aka “Paul B”), the secretary of the association revealed that the event is being organized in concert with the Indigenous Knowledge Center (IKC) in Akobo saying the purpose was “to boost citizens’ morale in their quest for peace”
“As we’re hoping for peace to come to the young nation in the next round of talks, it’s essential to boost citizens’ morale and to restore hope for peace they have lost in the past rounds of peace talks which failed to bear fruits,” he said.
Khor Deng Jang (aka “Khor DJ”), the chairman of the association, urges the warring parties to put the interest of the nation first and negotiate in good faith in the next round of peace talks to be held next week in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa.
“I am hereby sending clear message to the warring parties. We want peace, no for war. We need peace to come to South South this time. Enough is enough. You put the interest of the nation first. We’re for peace and we want you to negotiate in good faith. Peace is what we long for and we need it right now!”
Bul Bul Dojiok, the deputy chairman of the association is urging the international community to exert more pressure on warring parties. He said, “You’ve never taken any tough action which can pressure both warring parties to sign peace agreement. Rather, you opted for targeted sanctions which shall never bring any tangible result.
“Stop barking like a toothless dog. We’re tired of you. We want you to fully pledge to make sure that this agreement is signed.”
Chuol Yien, one of the organizing team and member of the Indigenous Knowledge Center (IKC ) said the peace concert will be used as the official launching ceremony for the IKC. The invitation is extended to international and national NGOs operating in the area, church leaders, local authority, women’s association, traditional authorities, the trade union, the Akobo Youth Association and to all residents of the county.
A statement from SSAAE says that prominent local artists have been invited to perform including Paul B, Deng Maroal, Jock Badeng, Gatruop Yian and many others.