FILE PHOTO: Gen. Gregory Deng Kuac is among the prominent Gogrial leaders who recently concluded a months-long reconciliation process in Warrap State. (Photo: PPU)

Five prominent military and political leaders from Gogrial have concluded a months-long reconciliation process in Warrap State, a move widely welcomed by the Juba-based Apuk Youth Union.

The leaders include Gen. Gregory Deng Kuac, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Defense and Veteran Affairs; Gen. Lual Wek, former Tiger Division Commander; and Gen. Akot Lual, former Commander of Division 11.

According to Chairperson of the Union, Agany Geng Ayiei, the reconciliation, which was finalized on Tuesday in Luonyaker Payam, Gogrial East County, Warrap State, including Undersecretary for Defense in the Ministry of Defense and Veteran Affairs Lt Gen Gregory Deng Kuac, Former Commander of the Tiger Division Maj Gen Lual Wek Guem.

Other include former Governor of the Defunct Gogrial State Maj Gen Victor Atem Atem, Maj Gen Akot Lual Akot and Brigadier General Anyuon Chan Ajuong also participated in the agreement to resolve their past differences.

The Chairperson of the Union, Agany Geng Ayiei, stated that the initiative brings stability to young people after years of division among the communities.

“This reconciliation brings hope and stability to young people,” Ayiei stated. “For many years, divisions among our leaders influenced relationships among community members, including the youth who were affected. With our elders united, young people have an opportunity to work together, build friendships across the previous divides, and focus on development, education, and empowerment in our county and state. This reconciliation provides an example that differences can be resolved through dialogue rather than conflict.”

Following the resolution, Ayiei urged young people to participate in peace-building initiatives and support community development programs.

“I encourage young people to keep peace,” Ayiei stated. “We must avoid being drawn into conflicts that divide our communities. Too often young people are used in disputes that do not benefit them, only to be left with the consequences after the leaders and elders have reconciled.

“As youth, we should participate in peace-building initiatives, support community development programs, and encourage engagement among ourselves. Peace can be achieved when young people embrace the values of tolerance, respect, and coexistence demonstrated by our elders.”

The youth union expressed expectation that the settlement of the political conflict, which lasted more than a decade, will unify the community.