New Abyei Chief Administrator pledges to prioritise peace

January 19, 2023 (JUBA) – The new Chief Administrator  of Abyei Administrative Area, Chol Deng Alaak has vowed to prioritize peace in the region.

Alaak made the remarks after taking oath in the capital, Juba on Thursday.

He was appointed to the position last week, succeeding Kuol Deim Kuol.

Alaak appealed to the Twic and Dinka Ngok communities to respect last year’s cessation of hostilities agreement signed to allow peaceful dialogue.

“Border issues are the responsibility of the government. It is not the responsibility of the citizens. We will work together with all the stakeholders to ensure both communities of Twic and Ngok Dinka stop hostilities and accept themselves to work for peace, harmony, and coexist,” said Alaak.

While presiding over the swearing occasion, President Salva Kiir urged the new Abyei Chief Administrator to cooperate with Warrap State governor to restore peace and harmony between Twic and Ngok Dinka communities.

“Perpetrators from both sides should be brought to book. There is no reason for people to lose their lives,” he told the state-owned television (SSBC).

The governor of Warrap State, Manhiem Bol Malek vowed to cooperate with Alaak to resolve and settle all disputes between the two communities.

On January 3, 13 people were killed and five others wounded in an attack in Abyei, an oil-producing area disputed between South Sudan and Sudan. The attack was reportedly carried out by a combined armed group of Nuer and Twic Dinka on Rumamer village, 15 kilometres south of Abyei.

At least 27 houses in the village were also burnt down during the attack.

(ST)