The United States’ Greater Mabaan Community, concerned with the current crisis occurring between the refugee and host community in Mabaan County, would like to weigh in on the issue and offer our suggestions for a peaceful resolution.
First, we do not want to see the refugees chased away from the county. It is a difficult time for everyone in the community as lives are being lost on both sides. This is why it is so important for both communities to unite and work with local authorities to resolve their differences. Let us stand together and work through this pain. Fighting is not the way we end conflict.
Second, with exception to the Doro camp and Kaya camp, we demand camp Yusuf Batil and Gendrasa show respect to their host community. Refugees need to uphold the laws and regulations that are established by the local authorities and UNCHR. The laws are designed to ensure your safety and wellbeing. Your fellow refugees who seek only peace, particularly women, children and the elderly, are in danger as the result of your criminal actions. They deserve the peace they sought while taking cover in Mabaan.
Third, local authorities should be taken very seriously. We want to ask our community youth in the USA and in the county to let the local authorities and the government of South Sudan deal with the situation. The authorities need our support, not our resistance. Let’s work together with them to find a peaceful resolution.
By Simon Tongo, Greater Mabaan Community in U.S.A
File photo: Blue Nile refugees