What are the expectations from the Presidential “Peace Committee” on the Jonglei Crisis?
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By Pal Chol Nyan, Juba, South Sudan
Saturday, July 11, 2020 (PW) — The Committee formed by His Excellency the President flew to Panyagoor on the first leg of their mission to Greater Pibor for peace making. They have been tasked to defuse the tension and stop the ongoing destruction of lives and properties.
I thought they would first go to Greater Pibor , the theatre of the battle. There is nothing in Panyagoor. Those to talk to are the fighters. They are more influential than the Chiefs who have little or no role in the current state of affairs. The Youth in the village don’t listen to the elders.
Another thing that will make the work of the committee difficult is because there is no Governor on the ground.You also need to have the Commisisoners, local government officers as well as States Assemblies in place so that they give impetus to the peace dialogue.
Their presence on the ground will have a positive impact in the sense that they will talk to their armed youth.
I concur with the General who expressed his pessimism about the chances that the committee will succeed in restoring peace and stability.
The complex diversity of Jonglei State needs a concerted effort and goodwill alongside the personalities who are given this daunting task. The Murle , Dinka Bor and Lou Nuer have lived here for generations and will continue to be there. They share a lot in common.
The cause of the conflict in Jonglei are known to the hoi polloi. They are triggered by child abduction, slaying of people on the roads, in their farms and residences, cattle rustling and quarrel over water points. These are the issues to be addressed.
The Committee under Hon commander Cde. Hon.General. Prof. Dr.James Wani were given 21 days to submit their report to His Excellency the President. Five 5 days from the day of the issuance of the Order passed by;not even a statement from them.
This signals a failure from the get-go. Secondly, the Lou Nuer Sub-committee are in Waat. I know it will take them time to go to Lanken , Walgak, Pieri , Kaikuiny or Akobo. They know the reason.
The IO local administration could have been included because the mobilisation usually takes place there. This was not done. What does it tell? You know the answer.
I heard on the grapevine that there was some forms of hostilities and exchange of fists by the members of the sub- committee. Should that be driven by greed and love of money ?
Could it be that Mr X assumes is more influential than Mr Y?
The Committees must go to Pibor, Gumuruk , Likuangole, Berteth, Akobo and Lanken to hold meetings with those physically involved in the fight.
When I heard they landed in Panyagoor and Waat, I predicted the outcome. If you wish to be a member of the Committee, you must be brave, which is one of the features of being a leader.
The author, Pal Chol Nyan, is a Graduate from the College of Radiological Medical Sciences from Sudan University of Sciences and Technology. He also holds a Diploma in Teaching Methodology and a Diploma in General Medical Sciences. He was a red army soldier, a former Primary school teacher, currently serving as a General Medical Practitioner in Juba Teaching Hospital in Juba, South Sudan. He is a columnist with local newspapers in Juba/South Sudan and contributes in many websites about social, security and economic. You can reach him via his email: palcholnyan2016@gmail.com
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