Dr Riek Gai Kok, Governor of Jonglei State - Photo Courtesy

JUBA, South Sudan (Eye Radio) – The Governor of Jonglei State, Dr. Riek Gai Kok has condemned the alleged looting and destruction by SPLA-IO forces in Uror, stating that such violence will never elevate suspended FVP Dr. Riek Machar to power.

While addressing citizens displaced from Uror County to Duk County, Jonglei State Governor Dr. Riek Gai Kok maintained that acts of destruction provide no legitimate path to power.

He spoke directly to those affected by the recent clashes between the SSDPF and SPLA-IO, asserting that political leadership cannot be built on devastation.

Following a security assessment of the region, the Governor provided an update on the restoration of order and the imminent return of displaced families to their homes.

Speaking in Nuer, Dr. Riek Gai Kok stated that local youth are mobilized to ‘liberate’ the area from SPLA-IO control.

However, it remains unclear whether his remarks referred to a civilian-led movement or the ongoing SSPDF troop assembly aimed at reclaiming territories recently captured by the SPLA-IO.

He stated that the violence in Uror County came as a shock to President Salva Kiir, adding that the violence is viewed as a direct affront to the ongoing peace process.

“Your youth has arrived in Padiet and Pajut; the instability will come to an end soon. In a few days, you will return to your homes in Uror. President Kiir expressed deep shock at this sudden outbreak of violence, especially at a time when we are all talking about peace,” Dr Riek Gai told IDPs in Duk County.

“It is devastating to see the Lou Nuer looting their own hospital, markets, and stripping the doors of houses. The SPLA-IO claims Riek Machar must lead, but does a leader achieve power by destroying his own community? Does he lead by dismantling the hospitals of Uror? This will never happen.”

The Governor’s remarks come in the wake of significant unrest in Uror, where vital community assets—including medical facilities and local trade hubs—were targeted.