Despite the hopeful conclusion of a three-day peace conference in Jonglei State’s Akobo County, violence erupted just a day later, casting a shadow over the proceedings. The conference aimed to unite stakeholders in advocating for harmony in the greater Jonglei region and ended with resounding calls for peaceful coexistence.

However, the fragile peace was shattered when two individuals were tragically killed and two children abducted on Sunday.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Tuesday, Puok Nyang Tujiek, the commissioner of Akobo County, condemned the violent acts, labeling them as isolated incidents.

“There was an incident on Sunday evening at 4 PM, where someone moving from Ethiopia to Akobo with his brothers was shot dead by criminals from Greater Pibor Administrative Area. The same day around 7 PM, the same people went to a nearby village called Dengjock, killed a woman, and abducted her two boys,” Puok explained.

Puok has urged his counterparts in Pibor to raise awareness about the peace agreement among the local population. Commissioner Puok emphasized that the road to peace is long and filled with obstacles, but the people of Jonglei State remain steadfast in their commitment to overcome them.

Meanwhile, Abraham Kelang, the GPAA Information Minister, expressed unawareness of the recent incidents. “I am not informed because a few days ago there was a peace conference in Akobo. Commissioners from Gumuruk, Likuangole, and Pibor, along with all paramount chiefs, attended,” Kelang stated.

Kelang reassured that the government in his region is actively working to promote peace among the communities.

The incident has shocked the community, which had recently gathered in a collective effort to pave the way towards lasting peace.

As Jonglei State grapples with this setback, the stark contrast between the conference’s message of unity and the reality of continued conflict serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges ahead. The pursuit of peace remains a pressing issue, and recent events have only strengthened the resolve of those working towards it.