By Alan Clement
Eastern Equatoria State Governor Louis Lobong Lojore has urged families to shield youth from armed group recruitment, warning that political manipulation threatens peace in the area.
Addressing peace rallies in Magwi and Torit counties, Governor Lobong urged families to prevent youth recruitment into armed groups, warning political spoilers are exploiting communities to derail Eastern Equatoria’s future stability and unity.
“Parents and families have a critical role in discouraging their children from joining armed groups, because the future of Eastern Equatoria depends on safeguarding its youth from being misled into unnecessary conflicts orchestrated by disgruntled political actors,” Lobong said at the rallies on Tuesday according to a statement from the governor’s office.
The Governor expressed deep concerns over verified reports and persistent rumors of armed groups allegedly originating from the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, said to be roaming the bushes of Torit and Magwi, describing the developments as serious threats to peace and stability.
The Governor accused politicians from holdout groups and elements within the SPLM-IO of attempting to recruit youth from local communities, reiterating his call for vigilance and urging residents not to harbor criminals or support destabilizing activities.
“Our people must not allow themselves to be lured into rebellion and instability parents have a critical role in ensuring their children are not enticed into actions that endanger both households and the wider society,” Lobong warned.
The Governor further expressed concern about worsening insecurity on major roads, including the Torit-Central Equatoria and Torit-Magwi highways, where commuters have suffered robberies, looting, and killings. He called on residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements.
The peace rallies, which kicked off in Torit and concluded in Magwi later that day, drew hundreds of citizens, local leaders, and community representatives. Residents in both counties pledged full support to the state government’s peace efforts and reaffirmed their commitment to defending the stability and wellbeing of their communities.
The governor’s campaign signaled revitalized efforts to strengthen grassroots peacebuilding with priorities on safeguarding the youth, heightening community vigilance, and sharing responsibility for lasting stability across Eastern Equatoria.