Press Statement, April 3rd, 2014
Chollo Youth Take Up Arms to Liberate Chollo (Shilluk) Land
Since the armed conflict started in December 2013, Chollo land has never been in peace. The marauding unruly and ruthless Nuer militias continued their unceasing brutal killings of innocent and unarmed Chollo civilians in Malakal and the villages. At the same time, the SPLA and the government have displayed total failure to provide protection to them and Chollo land. Chollo were mercilessly killed, their properties looted and their villages occupied. All Chollo land south of Kodok is now under the occupation of these savages. Even Kodok itself where the bulk of our people who did not seek refuge in Sudan are gathered is under threat of an imminent attack by the Nuer militia. Those who escaped death are under severe conditions with no humanitarian assistance of any sort from any quarter. The children, the elderly and the other most vulnerable groups are bearing the brunt of this brutality. These are conditions of destruction and annihilation of a nation.
To face this disaster, the Chollo youth have decided to defend their helpless people and liberate Chollo villages from the Nuer militia invaders. This decision had to be taken because our people were being chased like animals from place to place. It is either our land is taken while we are alive and agonizing or we die fighting to defend our land. Our youth opted for the latter.
Chollo youth together with Chollo sons in the organized forces (police, prisons, wildlife, retired soldiers, etc.) in the area have organized themselves under the command of the Member of the Upper Nile State Assembly representing Panyikang County, Honorable Mustafa Gai Lwal. They are now organized into fighting units. Under their courageous and patriotic commander, this Chollo force on the 1st of April liberated the area from Athidhiang up to Nyilwaak after fierce battles with the invading force. At the moment. They are poised to attack and capture Tonga, the last stronghold of these destructive militias. After that the Chollo gallant fighters will turn to liberate the remaining areas.
Let it be known to all that the Chollo do not have expansionist intention but will face any aggression with an equal force. The land of Nyikang Agojang will not be profaned in our lifetime.
—
By:Chollo Youth In Upper Nile State