This decision comes in response to the growing popularity of this income practice and the significant financial pressures it imposes on families within society. 

By Chuol Changon 

The King of Chollo Kingdom, His Majesty Reth Kwongo Dak Padiet of the Chollo Kingdom, has prohibited the luxurious modern wedding practices that conflict with traditional Chollo marriage customs.

 In his statement, King Kwongo banned “henna parties,”- pre-wedding ceremonies where brides and their relatives are decorated with redish-brown dye (henna) on their skins as part of the celebrations.

This decision comes in response to the growing popularity of this income practice and the significant financial pressures it imposes on families within society. 

In addition to henna parties, the King also banned the practice of “bull slaughter” during traditional wedding ceremonies.

“Anyone who violates this ritual will face anathema under the royal decree,” said Barnabas Isaac Awow,  Chollo Paramount Chief in Juba

He said the royal decrees reflect the King’s keen interest in preserving the cultural heritage of the Chollo people while enhancing financial responsibility and reducing economic pressures on the community.

Local community leaders and cultural community elders have been urged to ensure the implementation of these new measures and to encourage alternative ways of celebrating weddings that are in line with the spirit of tradition.

However, the royal order has sparked discussions among members of the Shilluk community, with some supporting the move as a necessary step towards addressing financial challenges, while others expressed concerns about the implications on cultural practices.

The Shilluk Kingdom, also known as the Chollo Kingdom, is one of the oldest traditional kingdoms in South Sudan.

The current king, His Majesty the King of Kwongo  Dak Padiet, is known to be the 34th king since the founding of the Chollo Kingdom, at the hands of their first king, Nyikango Akwara, between approximately 1545 and 1575 AD.  His Majesty, the heir of Kwongo  Dak Padiet, was also known as a strong advocate for the preservation of the values ​​and customs of the Shilluk people while adapting to the social and economic realities of modern life.

“Anyone who violates this ritual will face anathema under the royal decree,” said Barnabas Isaac Awow,  Chollo Paramount Chief in Juba