Central Equatoria Governor, Emmanuel Adil Anthony speaks to chiefs of Lado Payam on Wednesday, March 12, 2024. (CES/Facebook)

Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony of Central Equatoria State reiterated his administration’s commitment to address the persistent issue of land grabbing in Lado Payam of Juba County.

Adil spoke in a meeting with local chiefs and lawmakers representing Lado Payam – a week after a traditional leader in Molubur village pleaded with him to save his community from the menace.

The governor called for “maximum cooperation” with the community for his administration to exert more robust efforts to crack down on the land grabbers, according to a statement from his office.

The head chief of Lado Payam, Mr. Beda Elia Tongun, reportedly thanked Governor Adil for the opportunity to share challenges confronting his people.

On March 7, 2024, armed men stormed the residence of Molubur chief Franco Joseph Wousang and beat his family before demolishing his house.

The incident occurred after Juba County authorities apprehended 40 suspected land grabbers, including military officers in the area.

Wousang called on the government to maintain law and order, adding that he wants the perpetrators held to account for the mistreatment and destruction of his property.