By Alan Clement
Communities in Tonj North County of Warrap state have pledged to support new Hybrid Justice System following a sensitization drive led by Warrap State Governor Bol Wek Agoth.
The state of emergency sensitization drive by Governor Agoth is aimed at restoring the rule of law in Warrap State following a surge in inter-communal violence in recent months.
Addressing residents during a State of Emergency awareness campaign this week , Governor Agoth assured the public that the safety of people and property would be guaranteed through coordinated efforts by state security forces, particularly in the wake of ongoing disarmament operations.
“I will commit to restore our historical, traditional values where the children respected elders, the community valued women and the society respected authority, as the means of entrenching order,” Governor Agoth declared.
The Governor commended Acting Commissioner Agany Lok Agany for spearheading peace initiatives across Tonj North County, despite logistical challenges posed by poor road access. His efforts have reportedly laid the groundwork for reconciliation and community engagement.
The governor’s proposal to establish a Hybrid Judicial System, which would empower traditional chiefs to play a central role in administering justice and resolving disputes at the community level was warmly welcomed by local chiefs, women, and youth leaders. The system will integrate customary law and formal legal mechanisms in executing the rule of law.
“The narrative for Warrap State must change from conflict to reflect the SPLM philosophy of taking towns to the people by focusing on service delivery and building infrastructure,” said Agoth who emphasized that the new approach aligns with the vision of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) vision.
Prominent officials including Ayak Bona Nyang, Garang Mabil, Kuec Deng Mayar, a National MP, several State Ministers, Heads of Independent Commissions, State MPs, SPLM party leaders, and heads of security organs joined the governor during the campaign.
The sensitization campaign is a reflection of Warrap State’s efforts to transition from periodic violence to sustainable peace and development through reconciliation, community-led justice system and development projects.