By Peter Kuol Kuch
The internally displaced persons at Pagaak and Pajut in Duk County of Jonglei State are in dire need of shelter materials ahead of rainy season in the area.
According to Duk County Commissioner the internally displaced persons in Pagaak and Pajut are taking refugee under trees following the displacement in January.
Speaking to No.1 Citizen Daily Newspaper , the Commissioner of Duk County John Chatim Wuor, emphasized that there is no need assessment that has ever been made when the internally displaced fled their original homes in January and February.
“The two areas of Duk Padiet and Poktap are better compare to Pajut and Pagaak. In these two areas there is no any assessment that has been made. Now, we are afraid, the IDPs are facing serious challenges and in dire need of shelters and food. As the rainy season begins, I urge the agencies to intervene” Chatim said.
Chatim stated that the humanitarian partners and the government of Jonglei only conducted the assessment for the internally displaced in Poktaap and Padiet respectively, and they were able to receive assistance.
He underscored that the life of the IDPs would be more difficult given the fact that the rains are soon to begin and there are proper shelters available to safeguard them during the rainy season.
He urged the humanitarian partners operating in Jonglei to help support with sheltering materials, food and medicines before rain begins this season.
“Now, we don’t know the exact number of the IDPs in those locations because no assessment has been made before. Therefore, I ask the humanitarian partners to quickly intervene and do this support. He said.
According to UN reports, more than 20 thousand people were displaced internally at the areas of Nyirol, Pajut, Akobo and Uror among other areas, seeking refuge in Duk, Twic East and Bor Counties and other crossed to Lakes State through Awerial County following the clashes between the SSPDF and SPLA-IO forces.
The situation of the internally displaced people in Northern Jonglei and other corridors in South Sudan is described to be catastrophe and that it requires urgent intervention.
However, the UN and international Community has been urging their warring parties to cease the violence and provide safe roadmap that would allow the South Sudan to prepare for general elections without fear and violence.