Leaders from Ethiopian towns bordering South Sudan have visited Akobo to monitor the implementation of a recently signed Cross Border Peace Agreement.
The nine member delegation was headed by leaders, youth, and security personnel from Tergol Woreda county in Ethiopia’s Gambella region. They arrived in Akobo East, which is in SPLM-In Opposition territory, on Thursday to witness the return of 19 cattle belonging to Tergol Woreda citizens which were stolen by an Akobo citizen.
Akobo East County Commissioner Tut Chot told the Ethiopian delegates that the meeting would begin the process of peace and reconciliation. His said his administration is willing to quickly implement all the signed protocols including compensating for lives of people killed during conflicts between the two counties.
The Ethiopians expressed satisfaction with the willingness of the people of Akobo East to implement the remaining protocols. They also promised to deport wanted criminals who are accused of committing crimes in Akobo but take refuge across the border.
The two sides said they enjoy free trade, sharing of security information, and free traveling of citizens across the international border.
Radio Tamazuj Photo: Akobo East commissioner Tut Chot speaks with an Ethiopian delegation