WBGS Governor: Transitional justice, the only healer in post-conflict society
Governor Emmanuel Okello hinted that peace cannot be achieved unless the people of South Sudan are willing to confront the truth of what they have gone through and work together for reconciliation.
By Aguok Chok
The Governor of Western Bahr el Ghazal State (WBGS), Emmanuel Primo Okello, said transitional justice and national dialogue are essential steps to healing the deep divisions and tribal hatred caused by the civil war in South Sudan.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday in Wau, Okello said the public has been demanding credible elections, and it is vital to promote unity among citizens whose social fabric has been severely damaged by years of conflict.
“We cannot build a peaceful future unless we sit down as South Sudanese and openly talk about our past, the pain, the mistrust, and the suffering we endured,” he said.
The governor hinted that peace cannot be achieved unless the people of South Sudan are willing to confront the truth of what they have gone through and work together for reconciliation.
In his first public statement on the national political situation since becoming governor, Okello stressed the importance of an open and honest dialogue across all levels of society, from local communities to the national leadership.
According to him, reconciliation must involve everyone if the country is to move forward.
“Dialogue is the only way forward because it is time we accept each other as one people and leave behind the bitterness that continues to divide us,” he added.
He highlighted that the civil conflict, which began in 2013, has left many citizens in a state of hopelessness.
He added that the wounds from the war have not yet healed, and many people are still living with pain and mistrust.
Governor Okello warned that without real efforts toward reconciliation, the country risks remaining trapped in cycles of violence and division.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working hand in hand with law enforcement agencies to ensure political neutrality and avoid interference from those who seek to benefit from the divisions among the people. “Western Bahr el Ghazal, and indeed all of South Sudan, cannot afford to be a battleground for political interests. We need peace to rebuild and benefit from our natural resources,” Okello said.
He expressed concern about the continued political manipulation that threatens peace and stability in the region.
Okello said such interference prevents the country from focusing on development and using its vast natural resources for the benefit of all.
“South Sudan has become a laboratory of social division and political incongruity.”
The governor described how politics has been misused to drive communities apart instead of bringing them together.
Despite the challenges, Governor Okello remains hopeful, saying that through national dialogue and increased awareness among the population, the people of South Sudan can rebuild trust and national unity.
He called on all leaders, elders, youth, and civil society to join hands in promoting peace and understanding.
“With premeditated dialogue and education, the people can restore trust and national solidarity.”
