Dredging of the Nile Basin: A call for unity and support for Governor Dr. Joseph Muonytuil
6 min read
Prof. John Apurut Akech
A dramatic confrontation between Prof. John Akech of Juba University and Governor Joseph Monytuil of Unity State over the dredging of the Naam River along the Nile Basin in South Sudan
By Duop Simon, Juba, South Sudan
Saturday, 09 September 2023 (PW) — During the 5th day of the 1st National Economic Conference, Prof. John Apurut Akech and Dr. Joseph Nguen Monytuil had differing views on the ongoing clearance of the Naam River in Unity State. The governor of Unity State accused John Akech of insulting the state’s people by calling them “animals”, but Akech denied the accusation and asked for evidence. At the conference, John Akech, who is the vice-chancellor of the University of Juba and a staunch anti-dredging campaigner, interrupted the speech of Unity State’s governor Joseph Nguen Monytuil, who is in support of the pro-dredging exercise campaign currently being carried out in the Naam River to reduce excessive flooding. Even though floods have almost entirely submerged Unity State, Prof. John Akech is against the dredging and interrupted the governor’s speech. The professor became angry and had to be calmed down by those around him.
Prof. John Apurut Akech has apologised, stating, “During a presentation by the Minister of Environment, I posed a question to Governor Monytuil regarding the Unity State government’s interest in the ongoing dredging process. I also inquired whether any environmental impact assessments had been conducted. The Governor’s response was unexpected, as he accused me of once referring to the people of Unity State as animals. This allegation infuriated me, and I demanded that he provide evidence to support his claim. I deeply regret that our genuine exchange resulted in a misunderstanding and an unproductive debate among our citizens. I want to clarify that Governor Joseph Monytuil and I are dedicated to serving our citizens in different capacities and roles. Furthermore, I have no hard feelings towards the people of Unity State or Governor Joseph Monytuil. I only disagreed with them on finding a more sustainable solution to flooding problems. I hope that this matter can be put to rest, and we can all come together to focus our energies on solving the economic challenges facing our country, which was the primary purpose of the conference organised by our government.”
A call for unity and support for the Governor of Unity State Dr. Joseph Nguen Muonytuil
For four years, the people of Unity State have been facing the devastating effects of flooding. This has caused almost half of the State’s population to be displaced, and widespread damage has been caused to crops, livestock, and infrastructure. The floods are mainly caused by the blocked Nile River, which prevents excess water from flowing downstream. Governor Nguen Muonytuil has initiated a project to dredge the river Naam, a tributary of the Nile that runs through Unity State, to address this problem. Dredging involves clearing the riverbed of sediments, debris, and vegetation obstructing water flow. By dredging the river Naam, Governor Dr. Joseph Nguen Muonytuil hopes to reduce the risk of flooding and improve the livelihoods of the people of Unity State.
Yesterday, August 8, 2023, a video surfaced on social media that depicted Professor John Akech of Juba University confronting Governor Nguen Muonytuil during a meeting that included international experts and personnel. Whether this meeting was part of the economic conference that began three days prior, or a separate forum intended to discuss the dredging issue is still being determined. The video captures Professor Akech on stage, where he could be heard shouting and criticising the governor while delivering a speech. As of late, Professor Akech has been posting about his anti-dredging campaign on his Facebook page, where he referred to supporters of dredging as “Gatluaks.” This term familiarises the Nuer people who comprise Unity State’s population. What Professor Akech hoped to achieve is still being determined by creating such a raucous scene and disrupting the meeting.
Professor Akech opposes the dredging project due to his concerns about its long-term environmental impact. He argues that dredging will disrupt the river’s natural ecosystem, affecting its biodiversity and water quality. He also believes it will harm the Sudd wetlands and jeopardise South Sudan’s water security. However, some argue that Professor Akech’s claims must be more persuasive to outweigh the project’s benefits. They view his concerns about the environmental impact as exaggerated and unsupported by evidence. They suggest that dredging could improve the river’s health by removing pollutants and invasive species. Furthermore, they note that the dredging will only affect a specific section of the river prone to blockages.
In addition, the proposal to pursue alternative solutions instead of dredging needs more clarity and practicality. The suggested measures need to be specified, leaving uncertainty about their effectiveness. It is important to note that dredging is not a singular solution but rather a component of a comprehensive plan to tackle the issue of flooding in Unity State and the country. This may involve the construction of dams, dykes, and drainage systems to regulate and manage water flow. Moreover, using discriminatory language and tribalistic sentiments to criticise Governor Nguen and the advocate of dredging is unprofessional and unacceptable. Such actions undermine the governor’s authority and hinder his efforts to serve the people. Furthermore, it incites division and animosity among the residents of Unity State, who should be united in addressing the everyday challenges they face.
As a concerned citizen, I encourage the residents of Unity State to come together and show their support for Governor Nguen Muonytuil’s dredging plan. This initiative will not only help minimise the danger of flooding but also create opportunities for economic growth, social progress, and political stability within the State. The governor’s leadership and foresight in initiating this project are commendable, and we should all work together to assist and appreciate him.
Conclusion
As a concerned observer, I am disappointed to witness the physical altercation between the Governor of Unity State, Dr. Joseph Manytuil, and the Vice Chancellor of the University of Juba, Professor John Apurut Akech. Leaders must model peaceful conflict resolution and cooperation rather than resorting to violence. Physical aggression only fuels discord and division, which hinders the progress and development of South Sudan. As intellectual leaders, they have a responsibility to find common ground and work together for the betterment of their people.
I want to offer some advice to Dr. Manytuil and Professor Akech. They should engage in open and respectful dialogue instead of resorting to physical confrontations. Recognising that they both have valuable perspectives and expertise can contribute to the improvement of South Sudan. By avoiding violence and collaborating, they can establish trust and understanding. This will pave the way for constructive discussions and joint efforts towards peace and harmony. Unity and cooperation are the keys to creating positive change for the South Sudanese people.
I urge Dr. Manytuil and Professor Akech to prioritise the well-being of their constituents and put aside personal grievances. They can build bridges, foster reconciliation, and ultimately create a brighter future for South Sudan. Lastly, to express his opinions freely without being subjected to harsh criticism, Professor John Apurut Akech, who was once a diehard critic of Dr. John Garang and the SPLM/SPLA during the 1990s while living in London, should consider transitioning from his ‘secluded’ academic career and entering national politics like Dr. Joseph Manytuil.
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