Governors of Warrap and Western Bahr el Ghazal States Call for End to Violence Between Communities

In a joint effort to promote peace and reconciliation, the Governor of Warrap State Kuol Muor Muor and the Governor of Western Bahr el Ghazal State Sarah Cleto Hassen have made a strong appeal to the Apuk and Marial communities to denounce violence and work towards lasting peace. The call was made during a peace rally organized by the Government of Warrap State at Kuajok Freedom Square, in line with the implementation of Presidential orders issued on 16th January, 2024 aimed at resolving conflicts between the Twic, Ngok Dinka, Apuk, and Marial Wau communities.

Governor Kuol expressed his appreciation for the presence of Governor Sarah Cleto and her delegation at the peace rally, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in paving the way for permanent peace between the two communities.

He urged the local communities to cease resorting to violence, emphasizing that it is not the solution to their problems. Governor Kuol highlighted the commonalities between Western Bahr el Ghazal State and Warrap State, noting that they were once part of the same state before the administration was transferred to Kuajok.

Governor Sarah Cleto echoed the sentiment, describing the day as a crucial turning point that will mark the beginning of lasting peace between the two communities. She commended Governor Kuol’s efforts in organizing the peace rally and emphasized her government’s commitment to restoring peace between the Marial Wau and Apuk communities, particularly for the sake of the women, children, and elderly who have been affected by the violence.

Local chiefs from Gogrial West, Gogrial East, and Twic County also pledged their support for dialogue and called for a final peace rally for reconciliation and forgiveness to be conducted in Wau. Both governors agreed on the need to clear road ambushes and resume public transport as soon as possible.

The peace rally was attended by Deputy Governor of Warrap State Aluel Garang Garang, advisors, ministers, heads of security forces from both sides, State Members of Parliament, humanitarian agencies, the general public, and cultural groups.

The joint appeal by the governors and the commitments made at the peace rally signal a strong effort to foster reconciliation and peace-building between the communities, bringing hope for a brighter and more peaceful future for all involved.