MP condemns inter-tribal fighting in Sudan’s Lakes State
July 19, 2006 (JUBA) — The Southern Sudan Legislative Assembly (SSLA) Member of Parliament (MP), Gordon Mourtat Mayen, yesterday condemned the inter-tribal fighting between the two branches of Dinka Agar and Gok in Lakes State which resulted in the death of 60 people.
In a statement to the English language Khartoum Monitor Mayen censured the fighting as unjustifiable “because every south Sudanese are aware that the killing is a grave threat to the Comprehensive Peace Agreement”.
The MP said that SPLA forces have used fire to contain the clashes.
“There have been some casualties caused by Government of South Sudan (GOSS) security forces whose aim was to use minimum force in order to maintain law and order”, the MP said.
Mayen appealed to the first vice-president of the Sudan and the president of GOSS “to do his best to maintain absolute justice”.
The MP said that they want to see justice done with impartiality as he asked GOSS security instrument not to take side in separating the two communities.
He adds, “This is very important because it will increase the popularity of GOSS.
Mayen called on the two communities to end their decades of fighting both side have been victims of their tribal enmity.
“As for you the Agok and Agar Dinka sub tribes you have been fighting each other for years and hundreds of people have died what benefits have you gained now? He asked. Moreover, he said that the communities have lived together for years and have become relatives.
“You have ignored fundamental relations between you such as the great inter-marriages and respect which many Agar and Gok chiefs headed by Arok Kacual had protected.
The MP accused strangers for the bloodshed between the two communities.
“Of this bitter hatred of each other, it has been brought about by foreigners and outsiders. I appeal to you to stop them,” He urged.
Mayen warned the two that if they continue waging tribal war between them it would destroy their society and their cattle may disappear forever.
“Please change your heart and become loyal to your government, which will develop agriculture in your area, it will establish many schools of various levels, it will provide clean water, medical care so that people don’t die from treatable diseases and it will put a permanent end to corruption”. The MP appealed.
(Khartoum Monitor)