A three-day peace conference involving local communities in the restive Tonj South County of Warrap State kicked off on Monday.
The county has in the last year witnessed several clashes between the local communities comprising Apuk Jewiir, Thony, Muok, and Yar respectively.
At the commencement of the conference, Warrap State Governor Gen. Aleu Ayieny applauded the communities for their commitment to peace and stability.
“If you were not united in Tonj South (County), there would be no peace. I could not make it alone but we have managed because we are united with the commissioner,” Governor Aleu said. “I need you to agree on the tangible issues that can unite us. I need you to consider what we can do and how you can stay in peace with your neighboring communities.”
He cautioned the participants about fighting and said it hinders the government’s delivery of services.
“Since you started fighting, is there any development that has come to you? The government cannot come to work on water issues when you are fighting. All works were stopped when you were fighting but I thank you so much for maintaining peace now,” Gen. Aleu said.
The governor urged the entire population of the state to voluntarily hand over their firearms during the ongoing disarmament exercise.
“Government has started disarmament, and all the thieves have to hand over your guns. If you fail, I will fight you,” he said.
Some of the state legislators who are attending the conference said it was timely because the county has been grappling with insecurity occasioned by inter-communal conflict.
Lino Tafala, a state parliamentarian representing Tonj South said the conference targeted the right people.
“The nature of the conference is very good because it focuses on peace and targeted those who were involved in the conflict in Tonj South,” Tafala said. “They should forget about fighting and stealing things from other people and have to come back as productive civilians of Tonj South.”
Another legislator, Tobby Mawein, said the conference will mark the end of the conflict in Tonj South County.
“Today we are celebrating the end of the conflict between the communities of Tonj South, Apuk Jewiir, Yar, Aguok, and Thony,” Mawein said.
The peace conference is supported by International Organization for Migration (IOM) under the theme; ‘Enhancing law for peaceful coexistence.