Nakasongola church challenges parliament’s eviction order
Nakasongola Christ Church disputes an eviction order from the South Sudan government, claiming unfair compensation and historical significance of the land.
By Aguok Chok
A controversial land dispute involving Nakasongola Christ Church and the South Sudanese parliament has captured public attention, with opposing statements from both sides emerging. The issue revolves around Plot No. 02/Block 1st Class, located near the parliament quarter in Juba, a site that has been the church’s property for over 40 years.
The controversy erupted after a misleading video circulated on social media, prompting the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Interior to take action. The parliament’s plan to construct a new building led to an eviction order issued for the church and surrounding residents. According to Oliver Mori Benjamin, national member of parliament and Chairperson of the Information, Communication, Technology, and Postal Service, the land in question was originally allocated in 1970 by Greater Equatorial leaders for the regional government under the leadership of Moulana Abel Alier Akuac.
“The land was compensated to the IDPs and refugees, including both South Sudanese and Congolese nationals, and they were resettled,” Mori explained. The process was overseen by the late Hon. Daniel Awet Akot in 2011, ensuring that all parties were compensated and resettled in different regions. He further clarified: “The eviction order issued was based on the need to reclaim the land for the construction of a new parliament building.”
However, Rev. Abraham Marual, a preacher from Nakasongola, voiced strong opposition to the government’s actions, claiming that the church and its members had not been fairly compensated. “This land has been for the church for 40 years. We supported the SPLA during the struggle, yet now the government wants to demolish the church. Is this how we repay the church’s sacrifice?” Marual questioned.
The Reverend further disputed claims of compensation, saying, “We did not receive any money. The one who received the money should return it.” He also noted that despite assertions of compensation for land in Jebel, the church had not been contacted by any government representatives regarding their relocation.
The church, according to Marual, holds significant historical value. “There are mass graves of 89 people who died during the struggle, including church members, and we have the graves of our late bishop and his mother right beside the church.” He emphasized that these were not just physical losses, but deep spiritual and emotional wounds.
Despite the conflicting reports, Hon. Mori maintained that the government’s stance was legitimate, urging the public to focus on verified facts. “The issue should not be personalized or blamed on the current speaker,” he stated, referring to the accusations against Rt. Hon. Speaker Jemma Nunu Kumba. “This is a public property matter, and we call on everyone to rely on verified facts.”
The dispute continues to unfold, with Marual demanding the church be rebuilt and the land returned. He declared: “We will never change our minds. You must rebuild the church and restore what was lost. Only then will we forgive the wrongs committed against us.”
As the church’s community stands firm in its demands, the question remains whether the government will respond to these concerns or escalate the legal battle. The future of the land dispute hangs in the balance, as both sides remain resolute in their claims.
