Africa-Press – South-Sudan. The Bor Community in South Sudan’s Jonglei State has raised strong concerns over circulating information suggesting the removal of Bor County Commissioner James Gai Makor and the possible appointment of Ateny Pech Arik as his replacement.
In a letter addressed to Jonglei State Governor Dr. Riek Gai Kok on Monday, the community described the reports as disturbing and warned that such a move risks creating instability and division in the county.
In April 2023, Pech, then Mayor of the Bor Municipal Council, was relieved of his duties following challenges during his tenure. He was later appointed as Commissioner of Bor County, a decision that provoked widespread protests and led to an emergency meeting of community leaders and SPLM party officials. A formal petition was later sent to President Salva Kiir, who intervened by halting the appointment.
Dr. Angok Kuol Tiir, chairperson of the Bor community, said the document has caused anxiety among citizens of Bor county.
“Your Excellency, this development has caused deep anxiety among our people, as it mirrors a similar situation that previously brought tension to the community,” stated Kuol.
The Bor Community stressed that Bor County has many qualified and capable young men and women who can serve in leadership positions, urging that fairness and stability be prioritised in government appointments.
“There are many qualified, well-educated young men and women capable of providing effective leadership for Bor County and Jonglei State government. Therefore, in the interest of fairness, stability, and community confidence, we request that another capable son or daughter of Bor County be considered for this important position,” he stated.
The community reaffirmed its support for the leadership of President Kiir and Governor Riek Gai Kok, but appealed for careful handling of leadership transitions to safeguard peace and harmony in Jonglei
“As a peace-loving community committed to stability, we kindly urge Your Excellency to prevent a recurrence of division and instability within our community should the current information prove accurate,” Kuol wrote.
He emphasised that any decision regarding county leadership should follow proper SPLM party structures and procedures to ensure transparency and peaceful transitions.
Attempts to reach the office of the governor of Jonglei state for comment were unsuccessful after the phone call went unanswered.
The leaked document from the office of the Governor of Jonglei state.
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