By Lodu William Odiya
The Central Equatoria State Security Committee has reaffirmed its commitment to address the growing cases of land grabbing in Juba.
The committee reiterate the call on public to remain calm as the State government takes concrete steps to resolve the matter.
In a statement issued yesterday, the assurance followed resolutions passed during the Committee’s weekly meeting held Wednesday, chaired by the Central Equatoria State Governor, Rabi Mujung Emmanuel and Chair of the State Security Committee.
The statement emphasized Hon. Leon Abe Brown, State Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Agency, cautioned the public against taking the law into their own hands.
It also underscored the Minister revealed a notable rise in land grabbing cases, some involving government officials, and stressed that culprits would face legal consequences.
“We have observed individuals obstructing lawful land allocations by the Ministry of Housing, Land and Public Utilities. Unfortunately, some constitutional post holders are among the perpetrators,” said Hon. Abe.
The statement further underlined that honourable Abe appealed for patience from the public, assuring that the government is taking appropriate action.
It further noted the Minister also reported the presence of activities by holdout groups in certain parts of the State, reaffirming the government’s commitment to restore peace and stability across the State.
Land grabbing allegedly continues to be a primary contributor to insecurity within the Central Equatoria State counties, especially in Juba County, which hosts most people displaced by climatic hazards and civil wars, increasing the need for the acquisition of land for settlement.
Early this year, President Salva Kiir Mayardit during swearing in of Governor of Central Equatoria State (CES), Rabi Mujung Emmanuel directed him to handle land grabbing crisis and ensure Equitable land distribution in the city.