The acting governor noted the return of families to their homes, reopening of markets and joy among children as signs of tangible peace in the state.

By Emmanuel Mandella

Acting Governor of Western Equatoria State, Daniel Badagbu has called for peace and unity in the state in his Easter festive message.

Badagbu acknowledged the painful history of division and displacement that have scarred the state.

He emphasized that the resilience of the people has laid the groundwork for recovery.

“We have been divided. We have been displaced. But through it all, we have never let go of the idea that peace is possible. And today, I stand before you to say, peace is no longer just an idea. It is beginning to take root,” he said.

The acting governor noted the return of families to their homes, reopening of markets and joy among children as signs of tangible peace in the state.

He appealed to members of the SPLM/A-IO and other groups who are still in the bush to lay down their arms and come back to the community.

“Come home. Lay down your arms. This is not a time for hiding. This is a time for healing; the peace we are building needs you. We must remember there is no victory in isolation, only in unity,” Badagbu urged.

He also urged the citizens to embark on their farms. “Let no seed go unplanted and let no child grow angry because we did not act when the land called us,” he said.

The acting governor also took a firm stand on justice and women’s rights.

In a striking statement, he vowed to crack down on gender-based violence and hold perpetrators accountable.

“It is so crucial at this time. We must not see women suffering or dying in conflict. I will do everything possible to bring the perpetrators to court. Western Equatoria is no more a land where criminals will grow untouched.”

Meanwhile, in an exclusive interview with The City Review, a local youth activist based in Nzara County in Western Equatoria State urged the leaders to turn what they say into action.

“We’ve heard promises before, but this time, it feels different. You can see things changing. People are tired of war. They want to live in peace and contribute into the development of South Sudan.”

“We’ve heard promises before, but this time, it feels different. You can see things changing. People are tired of war. They want to live in peace and contribute to the development of South Sudan,” a local youth from Western Equatoria State said.