Council of ministers decree demolition of four populated villages in Bentiu town

by Bonifacio Taban Kuich

February 9, 2011 (BENTIU) – Authorities of Unity state have decreed the destruction of four populated blocks in Bentiu town, that has not been properly surveyed for public settlement. The council of ministers of Unity has decreed the demolition of the densely populated Ayiengas, Kordapkordap, Dera A and Dera B.

State minister of information, Gideon Gatpan Thaor said that, “the council of ministers was briefed by Diew Charoaw Kuel, minister for infrastructure and urban development. on the progress of water
networking, electricity provision and other necessary things that need to be done” in a new location.

Council of ministers came up with a policy, which stipulates that before settlement can take place, basic services must be provided. They said the decree would be respected by everyone, including
those with positions in the government.

The demolition process will begin this month as agreed upon by the Unity state ministerial meeting on Monday. However. many do not agree with the government decision to relocate the residents.

Speaking with residents at Dera A, there was concern that the relocation area would flood during rainy season, thus making housing unstable and the environment inhospitable. They were also concerned about the potential cost. The majority will build their houses using grass which costs around 1,000 SDG (US$390) per house. Taking into account extended families, this could a costly enterprise.

(ST)