Self-exiled activist Bol Deng Bol who fled his hometown of Bor in Jonglei State after an attempt to have him arrested by security operatives has been asked to return home after months abroad.
Bol’s troubles stemmed from his alleged involvement in protests over the rising cost of living in Bor.
Jonglei State Governor Mahjoub Biel Turuk, in a letter dated September 17, extended the invite to the activist who chairs the Jonglei Civil Society Network (JCSN).
“As the Governor of Jonglei State, I want to extend my sincere invitation to you to return to our state. I understand the concerns that led to your departure, and I assure you that we are committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all our citizens,” Turuk’s letter reads.
The Governor’s Press Secretary, Biel Jiek Lual, told Radio Tamazuj on Thursday that Bol fled to a neighboring country on his own volition and that it should be his decision to return.
“The Governor met the secretary general of the Jonglei State Civil Society Network on September 17 and discussed the issue of Bol Deng Bol. The Governor made it clear that it was not his issue for Bol to leave and he is free to come to stay in the state or any part of the country,” he stated.
JCSN Secretary-General Isaiah Kuch, echoed Lual’s sentiment and said Bol was free to return home and continue his advocacy work.
“I met the Governor and we discussed the issue and resolved that Bol could return safely. I welcomed the decision by the Governor,” he stated.
Efforts to reach Bol were not immediately successful.