30/07/2025
📰 GOVERNOR BOL WEK AGOTH VISITS TONJ EAST COUNTY AMIDST COMMUNAL CLASHES
July 30, 2025 | JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN
Tonj East County, Warrap State — In a bold and timely move, Governor Bol Wek Agoth of Warrap State today, July 30, 2025, paid a critical visit to Tonj East County, a region that has recently been plagued by a wave of deadly communal clashes.
The governor's visit comes on the same day South Sudan observes Martyrs’ Day, a national holiday honoring the sacrifices of those who gave their lives for peace and independence. His presence in the heart of a conflict zone sends a strong message: "We must honor our martyrs by choosing peace over bloodshed."
🔍 The Situation on the Ground
Tonj East has been one of the flashpoints of intercommunal violence, with tensions escalating in recent weeks due to disputes over cattle, land, and revenge killings. The clashes have claimed several lives and displaced hundreds of families, sparking calls for urgent action from both citizens and traditional authorities.
🤝 Governor’s Call for Peace and Accountability
Addressing a large gathering of local chiefs, youth leaders, women’s groups, and military commanders, Governor Bol Wek Agoth expressed deep concern over the recurring violence and pledged swift government intervention to restore law and order.
"This violence is not who we are as South Sudanese. It dishonors the blood of our martyrs. We must end the killings, embrace reconciliation, and rebuild trust among our communities," the governor declared.
He urged the youth to lay down their arms, resolve grievances through dialogue, and focus on development and education. He also announced that a joint security task force will be deployed to prevent further escalation and hold perpetrators accountable.
📢 Local Leaders Respond
Community elders and chiefs welcomed the governor’s visit and called for long-term solutions, including disarmament, access to justice, and livelihood support for returnees.
A youth representative from the area said, "We thank the governor for coming in person. We want peace, but we also need jobs, education, and fairness. Without that, violence will continue."
🔧 Path Forward
The governor concluded his visit by holding closed-door meetings with security officials and humanitarian partners to coordinate relief support for affected families and discuss a county-wide peace initiative that includes trauma healing, cattle management reforms, and inter-clan dialogue forums.
✊🏾 Conclusion
Governor Bol Wek Agoth’s visit to Tonj East on Martyrs’ Day was more than symbolic—it was a bold step toward healing the wounds of conflict and setting a tone of governance that walks with the people.
As South Sudan continues to face challenges, today was a reminder that true leadership does not hide from conflict—it confronts it with compassion, courage, and commitment.
🕊️ Let peace begin in Tonj East, and may it spread across every corner of South Sudan.