South Sudan’s Vice President James Wani Igga on Sunday said the government had taken decisive decisions to restore security to the greater Jonglei region.
The Jonglei region has long been plagued by recurring intercommunal violence involving the Dinka, Nuer and Murle communities. The cycle of violence is often accompanied by cattle raids, child abductions, and other revenge-inducing crimes.
Addressing a crowd of citizens in the town of Bor on Sunday, Wani said the unity government is committed to restoring security to the greater Jonglei state.
Igga knelt before traditional leaders in Bor to beg for peace and stability in the state amid reports of escalating inter-communal fighting in the region.
“We have seen the negative impact of fighting on our major towns like Malakal and Bentiu. The people of Jonglei want peace. Now, I noted some points from you on the root causes of the ongoing fighting and I will continue to gather more information,” said Igga.
He added, “There were efforts by the government to end this recurring communal violence. But this time, we are ready for peace comrades. We will end this fighting once and for all.”
The top official appealed to community leaders to support the government’s effort for peace and stability, emphasizing that peace is necessary for development and prosperity.
“We want peace so that we embark on developmental projects. As vice president, my people from Jonglei, I am pleading with you to stop fighting and allow us to resolve this problem peacefully,” he said.
Igga pointed out that he would travel to other parts of Greater Jonglei to call for peace and reconciliation in the state.
“From here, we will move to areas like Akobo, Waat, Fangak, and Pibor so that we collect information on their grievances and then find a solution,” he said.
Wani, accompanied by a high-level government delegation, arrived in Bor town on Sunday.
Last month, President Salva Kiir constituted a high-level committee led by Vice president James Wani Igga to investigate and find a solution to the ongoing conflict in Jonglei.