President Kiir urges for peace, cohesion in Ruweng, Unity State
The President underscored the urgent need for dialogue, unity, and mutual understanding among warring youth groups, even as he received a briefing on the recent peace pact among two Abyei communities
By Emmanuel Mandella
President Salva Kiir has renewed his call for lasting peace among communities in the Ruweng Administrative Area and Unity State, following fresh security concerns triggered by intercommunal violence in the regions.
Speaking in Juba on Wednesday after receiving a security briefing from the Chief Administrator of Ruweng, Stefano Wieu Mialek, the President underscored the urgent need for dialogue, unity, and mutual understanding among warring youth groups.
Early this month, Armed youth from Mayom County in Unity State seized control of Abiemnhom town in the Ruweng Administrative Area following clashes that ran through the night. The armed youth captured the town from authorities, conducting attacks that left a trail of casualties and displacement of people.
However, according to Chief Administrator Stefano, calm has gradually returned to Ruweng, thanks to the immediate engagement with Unity State Governor Riek Bim Top, which helped contain the violence and opened the door for intergovernmental cooperation on peace building.
“We are working hand in hand with the Governor of Unity State to put in place strong preventive measures and encourage community dialogue,” Stefano said, adding that his administration remains committed to service delivery and stabilizing the region.
In a related development, President Kiir also received a detailed report from Justice Charles Abyei Jok, the Chief Administrator of the Abyei Special Administrative Area. The report noted a breakthrough in peace talks between the Twic and Ngok Dinka communities, who recently signed a landmark agreement to halt hostilities and promote reconciliation.
Justice Charles further highlighted the growing humanitarian challenge as Abyei faces an increasing influx of refugees escaping the ongoing conflict in neighboring Sudan, putting additional pressure on local resources.
President Kiir’s timely intervention could mark a turning point in both Ruweng and Abyei, areas that have witnessed intercommunal violence. A local activist observes that peace could remain fragile without long-term investment in grassroots reconciliation and youth empowerment.
“We cannot continue losing our young people to violence,” said Mary Ayak, a human rights activist. “The President’s voice is powerful, but what we need now is consistent follow-up and support for local peace initiatives.”
With South Sudan preparing for elections and working to implement the peace agreement, national unity and stability remain top priorities for the presidency and for citizens yearning for an end to conflict.
