Grassroots consultations have begun in Jonglei State, South Sudan, as community leaders from Twic East and Duk counties seek to ease tensions following renewed violence between the two communities. Caretaker Governor of Jonglei State, Moses Majok Gatluak, launched the initiative, appointing separate 12-member delegations from the two counties on October 4 to engage their communities and help reduce tensions. The conflict involves the Ayual community of Twic East and the Hol community of Duk and has persisted since 2023.
The delegations from Twic East and Duk counties comprise prominent community leaders, including politicians, military officials, and clergy. The Duk delegation includes Gen. Michael Majur Aleer Deng, Gen. Deng Athoi Gatluak Deng, and Hon. Elijah Monyhom Wuor, among others. The Twic East delegation includes Hon. Biar Mading Biar, Gen. Philip Aguer Panyang, and Bishop Manyok Biar, among others. These delegations will engage their respective communities and help facilitate dialogue to address the ongoing conflict.
Caretaker Governor Majok stated that the consultations are part of a broader effort to promote peace across Jonglei ahead of South Sudan's planned elections. He emphasized that peace is crucial for the country's development and stability. Majok revealed that the state government plans to establish a committee to address tensions over Malual-Chaat in Bor, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to conflict resolution.
The consultations face challenges, including limited security personnel and funding. Majok acknowledged that the state government's efforts may be hindered by these limitations and called for support from the national government and development partners. Despite these challenges, the delegations have begun engaging with local communities, with the Duk delegation holding a major rally in Duk Padiet and the Twic East delegation engaging with youth and planning a major rally.
Community leaders have expressed optimism about the initiative, with Elijah Monyhom Wuor, head of the Duk delegation, stating that the communities are suffering and ready for peace. Deng Maluil, a community leader from Twic East County, also expressed hope that the arrangements will lead to lasting peace. The delegations' efforts aim to build on a peace agreement signed in July, which called for an end to hostilities and the resolution of disputes through dialogue.
The conflict between Twic East and Duk counties has persisted since 2023, with renewed clashes reported in recent weeks. The latest initiative follows renewed violence in Duk County in late September. The grassroots consultations are expected to culminate in a major peace conference to address all concerns and promote lasting peace between the two communities.
The outcome of the consultations will be crucial in determining the stability of Jonglei State and the success of South Sudan's planned elections. The caretaker governor's efforts to promote peace and stability have been welcomed by community leaders, who are hopeful that the initiative will lead to a lasting resolution to the conflict. The state government's commitment to addressing the root causes of the conflict and promoting dialogue will be essential in achieving lasting peace.
Key points
- Caretaker Governor Moses Majok Gatluak launches grassroots consultations to address Twic East-Duk conflict
- Delegations from Twic East and Duk counties engage local communities to promote peace and stability
- Consultations face challenges, including limited security personnel and funding
