Governor Agoth calls for immediate end to Apuk Giir–Marial Wau hostilities as peace talks begin

The Governor of Warrap State, Bol Wek Agoth, has called for an immediate end to hostilities between the Apuk Giir and Marial Wau communities as a dialogue between the two sides begins in Kuajok.

The dialogue aims to resolve the long-running dispute over territories that has resulted in deadly clashes in recent months.

In a statement yesterday, Governor Agoth said the ongoing peace dialogue must not substitute justice for victims of violence on either side of the conflict.

He called on joint law enforcement agencies to track down and prosecute individuals found responsible for instigating violence or destroying property.

Governor Agoth further stressed that any faction, group or individual from either side that resists disarmament, undermines the joint call for peace or attempts to reignite the conflict would face the full weight of the law under the declared State of Emergency.

He also called for the enactment of laws to ban, control and regulate the possession, handling and transportation of arms and ammunition, with severe penalties for violations.

On the issue of land, Governor Agoth called for reforms to what he described as ambiguous land laws in the country.

He argued that land should belong to the government and be regulated in the interest of the people.

Agoth also called for legislation to regulate customary practices, including the dowry system, particularly the regulation of bride prices.

He said this could help reduce the financial pressure on young people who resort to cattle raiding to raise dowry for marriage.