Western Equatoria State Governor, Lt. Gen. Alfred Futuyo Karaba, has warned civilians in the state against the illegal ownership of firearms.

He said guns must only be owned by the organised forces and those who are authorised by law.

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Futuyo said some civilians are involved in purchasing guns in the name of protection.

“Let me tell you that a family where guns are purchased more frequently is a family where conflict is expected,” Futuyo said.

He was speaking at the inauguration of the Youth Centre in Nzara County, which was attended by senior state officials and the youths.

“We have seen and witnessed in some communities where they always leave peacefully. It is because they do not think about having guns. [It is] not that they do not use them; they know that guns are for soldiers only,” he added.

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Futuyo called on citizens to embrace peaceful co-existence rather than arm themselves to fight each other in the state.

He said only unity can bring peace and that it is the peace that gives someone full protection rather than using guns for personal safety.

Governor Futuyo reiterated that a family where guns are commonly purchased is a family where conflict is expected. He added that to be peaceful, one must not have any harmful objects.

He urged the residents to report any unauthorised person who carries a gun in their neighbourhood to authorities, saying such individuals may instil fear in the community.

The official also urged the youth to focus on agriculture, adding that it was the only way to keep them busy from thinking about evil things in the communities.

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Governor Futuyo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the revitalised peace agreement.

“You can do better if you embark on agriculture, so avoid being lazy. You must think of doing what can make your future bright. We are talking about peace [and] not war now.”

“So, if you want to be a good person in the future, stop having problems with your fellow people of WES as well as the country, ” he advised.

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The governor promised to continue supporting youth activities in the state to help them understand the importance of nation peace-building.