JUBA, APRIL 16 2023 (THEJUBAMIRROR NEWS ) – The community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) has welcomed the deployment of security forces by the government to provide security along the Juba-Bor Road following a violent incident last week.
The deployment of government security forces along the important highway follow an attack by suspected Mundari armed men from Terekeka County on a passenger vehicle killing at least four people and wounding others.
“The trend of emerging deadly attacks on Juba-Bor Road is an act of hindering community economic empowerment,” said Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of Community Empowerment for Progress Organization in a statement this morning.
Mr. Yakani emphasized that it it crucial for the communities around the Juba-Bor Road to avoid violence at this time when the construction of the road offers long-awaited opportunities for economic growth in the country.
“It is not of great importance for the communities around Juba-Bor to embrace violence at this time where the construction of the road offers long-waited opportunities for economic growth,” the prominent activist noted.
CEPO further called on the political leadership of Jonglei and Central Equatoria states to establish a joint security team to ensure safety, protection, and security for the movement of people and goods along the road.
“The political leadership of Jonglei and Central Equatoria States should establish a joint security team for the provision of safety, protection, and security for the movement of people and goods,” said the CEPO statement.
Local leaders have also welcomed the deployment of security forces, hoping it will enhance security and foster economic growth.
“The deployment of security forces is a welcome move towards enhancing security. We hope this will help us in restoring normalcy and boosting economic growth,” said a resident of Bor town.
Moreover, local business persons who rely on the road to transport their goods expressed their relief, noting that the recent violence had negatively impacted their businesses.
“We welcome the deployment of security forces. We are optimistic that this will help in restoring confidence and ensure the safety of our trucks and goods,” said a local businessman.