A group of youth in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA) has called for the reinstatement of their chief administrator, who was dismissed in last week’s presidential decree.
Gola Boyoi Gola, the GPAA Chief Administrator, was removed following a decree by President Salva Kiir on Wednesday evening. The reasons for his dismissal have not been made public.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj, some local youth in Pibor town expressed their dissatisfaction with the decision and demanded Gola’s reinstatement.
One youth leader, Sebit Thawan, explained that protests have been ongoing since Gola’s removal on Wednesday to show their discontent with President Kiir’s decision. “As youth, we witnessed many positive changes during Gola’s tenure. All the promises he made regarding insecurity and free movement were fulfilled. Under his leadership, there was no major communal violence, and people had free access to various areas,” Thawan said.
He emphasized that the protests were not against Gola’s replacement, but a call for his reinstatement in the interest of peace.
Peter Mama, another youth leader, expressed disappointment over Gola’s removal. “Gola’s leadership brought significant opportunities for the youth. We were able to access scholarships, and the age-set fighting among the youth stopped. We recognized and celebrated these achievements and now demand his reinstatement,” Mama stated.
Jacob Werchum Jouk, the GPAA Information Minister, acknowledged the youth’s dissatisfaction, which has been demonstrated through street protests. He added that they are awaiting a formal petition from the youth, which they will forward to Juba for consideration.