Opinion| Remain calm and call for compromise and peaceful resolution of Nasir conflict

Armed youth in Nasir in an undated photo. (Courtesy photo)

The ongoing tensions in Upper Nile State’s Nasir County require immediate attention and intervention from both the community and the government. The escalation of violence and destruction of personal property must be addressed before it spirals out of control. As a concerned citizen, I am calling upon the community in Nasir to prioritize peace and dialogue over war and conflict.

It is imperative that the Government of South Sudan takes the Nasir tensions seriously and acts swiftly to address the root causes of the conflict. The presence of soldiers who have overstayed in Nasir has exacerbated the situation, leading to heightened tensions and violence. The community’s request to have these soldiers removed and replaced with new faces should be considered by the government as a potential solution to diffuse the conflict.

War is never a viable solution to any problem, and in the case of Nasir, it will only lead to more suffering and destruction. It is crucial to break the cycle of violence and find peaceful ways to resolve disputes and grievances. Having two armed forces within one nation only fuels division and conflict, making it essential to work towards a unified and cohesive approach to security and stability.

I strongly oppose the presence of the SPLM-IO in South Sudan, as their involvement has only added to the existing tensions and conflicts in the region. It is essential to dismantle any armed groups that threaten the peace and stability of the nation and to work towards reconciliation and unity.

While the community in Nasir has the right to demand the relocation of overstayed soldiers, this must be done through peaceful and constructive means. Resorting to violence will only further escalate the situation and lead to more suffering for the people of Nasir. Dialogue with the government is the best way to address grievances and find sustainable solutions that benefit all parties involved.

The community in Nasir faces a significant challenge when it comes to addressing its concerns with the government. The reality is that the government possesses substantial resources and power, making it nearly impossible for a local community to resist or fight effectively against it. Instead of resorting to violence, the people of Nasir should focus on engaging in peaceful dialogue with government officials to express their needs and aspirations. This approach can help foster understanding and potentially lead to positive changes in their situation.

Violence and armed conflict only serve to exacerbate the problems faced by communities like Nasir. The presence of armed groups, such as the SPLM-IO forces, complicates the situation further. While these groups may have initially arrived with intentions of supporting the community, their ongoing presence can lead to increased violence and instability. The community must recognize that a violent approach will likely lead to more suffering, with the government taking swift and decisive action against any insurgency. Therefore, advocating for peaceful negotiations is the most viable option for the people of Nasir.

Engaging in dialogue with the government can open avenues for collaboration and mutual understanding. Through peaceful means, community leaders can articulate their concerns about pressing issues such as security, access to resources, and social services. By presenting their demands in a non-confrontational manner, they stand a better chance of having their voices heard. This approach may also encourage the government to recognize the community’s legitimate demands and respond accordingly, fostering an environment of cooperation rather than conflict.

Furthermore, the community should also consider urging the SPLM-IO forces to withdraw from Nasir. While these forces may claim to protect the interests of the people, their presence can lead to further militarization of the area and create tension between the community and the government. Without the influence of such armed groups, local leaders can more effectively negotiate with the government, ultimately working toward a peaceful resolution of their issues.

In conclusion, the people of Nasir must prioritize peaceful communication with the government and consider the implications of armed groups residing in their communities. By advocating for dialogue and encouraging the removal of SPLM-IO forces, the community can take significant steps toward achieving stability and supporting necessary reforms. Peace is the most effective tool for change, and through collaboration, the community can create a brighter future.

The author can be contacted via dengdengt@yahoo.com.

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