10th February 2025
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MP suggests countrywide disarmament

Author: Obaj Okuj | Published: May 15, 2024

Armed youth in show of weaponry. | Courtesy

A member of parliament representing Ayod County in Jonglei State has recommended simultaneous disarmament to end recurrent cattle-related conflicts among the communities.

The suggestion was made after a motion presented by Honorable Awel Mawien Atem regarding recent incidents of cattle raiding in Yirol East County of Lakes State.

Hon. Awel alleged that armed men from Panyijiar County attacked the camp in April 2024, accusations that could not be immediately verified.

Ms. Awel emphasized the need for nationwide disarmament during her presentation to the parliament.

“We call upon the government of national unity to conduct a unified and comprehensive disarmament across the country,” he told the parliament.

During the debate, Hon. Nyaulang Chany representing Ayod County in Jonglei State, echoed the recommendation for a nationwide disarmament.

“I want to recommend that we in this House must accept the truth that the country needs to go for simultaneous disarmament so that the issue of cattle raiding must be put to rest,” she said.

“Our people will go back to their traditional spears, they will move with it and follow their cattle with, and this is the only solution that will help us, Madam Honorable Speaker.”

“I beg this House Right Honorable that we must go for simultaneous disarmament so that our people will take rest on this issue of cattle raiding.”

Following extensive deliberation, the parliament adopted and endorsed the recommendation for swift unification and deployment of forces to address the issue.

Speaker of the Parliament Jemma Nunu Kumba also condemned the cattle raiding incident and extended condolences to the families of those affected by the attack.

International observers say decades of conflict in South Sudan has led to the widespread proliferation of small arms in the hands of civilians, which threaten the safety of communities and limit wider socio-economic development.

 

 

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