SPLM youth demand support for war-affected states

December 23, 2014 (BENTIU) – South Sudan’s ruling party (SPLM) youth wing in Unity state urged support for war-affected regions.

Hoth acknowledged the role being played by Unity state governor, Joseph Monytuel, saying his efforts helped restore calm in the state capital, Bentiu.

Oil-rich Unity state has changed hands several times between government forces loyal to president Salva Kiir and the armed opposition groups led by his former deputy, Riek Machar.

Thousands of people, Hoth said, have now returned Bentiu after a ceasefire was reached by the rebels and pro-government forces.

“We have been receiving a big number of civilians coming from areas under SPLA-I-O and civilians under our control. They use to move to those areas not under our control,” he told Sudan Tribune.

“We are urging on international organisations in South Sudan to support the various state governments deeply affected by this conflict, to assist the victims of war, mostly children and mothers who have suffered in the genesis of the crisis,” added Hoth.

Most of the returnees, the youth leader said, lack food since they never had opportunities to cultivate due to fears of being killed.

He however said the ruling party was working hard to ensure peace is restored back in the young nation distabilised by the one-year war.

“Let us promote tranquility and security within our country by advocating for transparency instead of causing panic and destruction,” said Hoth, urging youth to support the peace process.

Tens of thousands of people have been killed and nearly two million displaced since violence broke out in the country in December 2015.

(ST)