By Yiep Joseph
Leaders in Jonglei state have called on the residents and the members of public in general to stop the spread of unverified information regarding the ongoing conflict.
According to the leaders what is posted on social media continue to be different from what is on ground hence causing unnecessary panic among the residents.
The call followed report of conflict between rebel forces and the government forces in some part of Jonglei.
The Governor of Jonglei State, Dr. Riek Gai Kok, has urged church believers, citizens, and members to remain calm and focus on peace building.
Speaking at a church service in Bor, Governor Gai called on Jonglei residents and members of the public to remain calm, adding that the government remains committed to restoring peace.
He appealed to the Christians to rise above denominational differences and focus on the spread of the gospel of peace and reconciliation in the country.
Gai lauded the church leaders for their unwavering prayers during South Sudan’s most difficult periods, noting their role in sustaining community resilience.
The governor assured citizens of stability and cautioned against the misuse of social media, urging restraint from incitement and misinformation.
On his part, Ateny Pech Ariik, Bor County Commissioner, reinforced the Governor’s message, calling for calm and urging media outlets to avoid unverified reporting.
He warned against political divisions that could undermine peace and emphasized the need to sustain current stability.
The call from Jonglei leaders came at a time when there were a series of reports of violence in the area.
Recently the Sudan People Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) claimed that its forces had captured the strategic town of Yuai, the administrative capital of Jonglei State’s Uror County.
SPLA-IO spokesperson Colonel Lam Paul Gabriel claimed the capture of some part of Jonglei; however, the SSPDF did not respond immediately during the press time.
Also, fear and uncertainty gripped parts of Jonglei State following an order by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) directing civilians to immediately evacuate areas under the control of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO).
The evacuation order affects the Lou-Nuer counties of Nyirol, Uror, and Akobo, particularly communities living near military barracks and assembly points. Authorities say the directive is intended to protect civilians from harm as military operations continue.
The announcement was made by SSPDF spokesperson Major General Lul Ruai Koang, speaking from the General Headquarters in Bilpam, Juba.
He urged civilians to comply promptly, warning that remaining in the targeted areas could expose them to serious danger.
But for many residents, the order has brought fear, confusion, and sudden displacement.