Toposa community condemns allegation against E. Equatoria governor

October 9, 2012 (JUBA) – The Toposa ethnic group in Eastern Equatoria state has condemned the allegation that Governor Louis Lobong Lojore has links with militia groups operating in the state.

The allegation, which was presented to South Sudan’s upper house – the Council of States – by a member who represents Eastern Equatoria State, prompted the parliament to summon to Juba last week governor Lobong in order to answer for the charges.

Michael Losike Lokerui MP who is the deputy chairperson of information and members affairs in the parliament and hails from the Toposa ethnic group, like the governor himself, presented the accusation against the Governor to the parliament.

During the hearing, Governor Lobong denied the allegation but the Council of States resolved to form a committee to further investigate into the charges.

In reaction to the event the chiefs, elders and intellectuals from the three greater Kapoeta counties, which are inhabited by the Toposa tribe, held an emergency meeting on Sunday in Kapoeta South County to discuss the allegation against the Governor.

The result of the meeting, condemned the allegation by Losike describing him as rumourmonger and creator of chaos and treason against South Sudanese in general and Eastern Equatoria in particular.

The community also resolved to disown MP Losike and presented a petition to the President of the Republic, Salva Kiir Mayardit, to remove him from Council of States.

(ST)