Jonglei backs GoSS’ call-off to Sudan’s census
Philip Thon Aleu
April 15, 2008 (BOR, Jonglei) — The move taken by Government of Southern Sudan (GoSS) to calling off census in the ten states of Southern Sudan is “a positive move,” governor of Jonglei state has said.
“How can you call it Sudan’s census and does not involved all parts of the country?” Lt Gen. Kuol Manyang Juk told masses who ululated in support.
The governor mentioned Darfur, as one part of the country not recognized by this census, insecurity in Unity state-neighboring Jonglei to the north and Jonglei’s own instability are yet to be addressed to have a smooth counting, he said.
“I have to be frank that there are some NCP members here in Jonglei who are sabotaging census,” Mr. Manyang said referring to key players who arm Southern tribes against each other stressing “not all NCP members like sponsoring tribal atrocities.”
Two children-from Bor village were abducted April 4, 2008; a development seen as resumption of insecurity in Jonglei state. More than three dozens children were abducted in 2007 alone from Bor community and tens of life lost to cattle raiders; believed to be sponsored by South Sudan partners, the NCP.
GoSS is autonomous government controlling the ten states of Southern Sudan. The GoSS cabinet passed a resolution Saturday April 12 calling off census in Southern Sudan’s states. Majority of the current cabinet ministers in the GoSS are members of South Sudan ruling party: the Sudan’s People Liberation Movement (SPLM).
Jonglei state, the birthplace of the SPLM, could not smooth census until disarmament is done away with. “Next year is not far,” Gen. Kuol, affirmed adding there is need to carryout a complete Sudan’s census that involved all regions.
The governor however decline to comment on any changes the SPLM and NCP will take.
(ST)