By Alan Clement
Political parties to the Revitalized Peace Agreement have called on citizens to uphold the rule of law.
A group of representatives from different political parties in Jonglei state on Monday denounced lawlessness and urged the residents in the area to report cases to the police with no delay.
The concern followed a report of tendencies of armed gang group terrorizing the state security.
In response, the group issued a strong condemnation of the recent mob violence in Jonglei State.
In a statement issued through the Governor’s Press Unit, Wany Bum representing the political parties stressed that mob justice undermines peace and stability, describing those behind the recent attack as “unconscionable enemies of the state who would not be allowed to get away with the crime.”
“As the political parties, we say a complete no to mob actions. We say no to crime, no to stealing, and no to all forms of criminality. If there is criminality, people will not take the law into their hands,” Wany declared.
He further called on political leaders and community elders to set aside personal interests and join in condemning any attempt to reintroduce lawlessness in Jonglei. “We enjoin everyone to put the interest of the state above personal ambitions,” he added.
The parties expressed condolences to the families of victims and pledged to work with security agencies to ensure justice is served. “May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace, and may the people find strength, comfort, and unity as they rebuild their lives,” the statement read.
The political leaders urged security agencies to swiftly apprehend the perpetrators of the violence and ensure they face the full weight of the law and also reaffirmed their commitment to support Governor Riek Gai Kok’s administration in promoting dialogue, strengthening social cohesion, and ensuring accountability.
“The parties remain committed to working with the state government to permanently resolve the conflict in Jonglei,” the press unit concluded.