JONGLEI STATE/GPAA, Dec. 8, 2024 — Armed youth from Jonglei State are reportedly advancing toward the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA), sparking fears of an imminent attack, local officials said Friday. GPAA Information Minister Jacob Werchum Jouk claimed that heavily armed youth have gathered at the border, targeting areas like Gumuruk and Likuangole.
“Lou Nuer and Bor youths have left their villages and are now at our borders, ready to attack,” Jouk said. “Our administrators near the border have confirmed their presence, and an attack could happen this week or next.” Jouk emphasized the GPAA’s commitment to peace and urged Jonglei State to prevent the situation from escalating, warning that past peace efforts could be undone by renewed violence.
However, Nyamar Lony, the Jonglei State information minister, dismissed the claims as fabricated and accused Pibor youth of ongoing aggressions. “Pamai was attacked Thursday, leaving one dead and five injured, including one in critical condition,” she said. “These accusations are baseless; it is their youth who are in our territory.”
Civil society activist Ter Manyang, the executive director of the Center for Peace and Advocacy, attributed the recurring violence to a lack of political will and leadership. “The recently concluded Governor’s Forum exposed leaders unwilling to address grassroots issues,” Manyang said. He called for urgent government intervention, including deploying unified forces, to prevent further violence.
The dry season often sees a surge in inter-communal violence in the region, underpinned by disputes over resources and historical tensions. Experts warn that the current accusations could mark the beginning of a larger conflict.
