Costly dowries are fuelling cattle rustling in Jonglei, a civil society activist has said, following last week’s cattle rustling in Pibor, leaving scores dead, reports JOSEPH EDWARD: Peter Atem, chairman of the Greater Equatoria, Bahr el Ghazel and Upper Nile, a civil society organization, said in an interview with New Times Newspaper that that the expensive marriages were partly fueled by top officials in the government.
Atem said he led a peace delegation to Panyigor sub County of Twich East to advocate for peaceful reconciliation among communities in Jonglei State who have suffered due to tribal conflicts.
The visit came at the same time as over 400 people were reported killed in clashes over cattle which started on June 15 in Pibor. Bakhita Radio last week reported Pibor County Executive Director Nakure Kereka putting the death toll at more than 400 Murle, and 35 wounded when Lou Nuer attacked Barnanam area within Pibor County by Nuer Lou attackers who came from five counties within Jonglei state. The Executive Director appealed to the United Nations and the World Food Programme to assist the Murle people and said the attackers were working against independence.
Ajuang Bior Duot, a Youth leader in Panyigor said that they have been experiencing the Murle threats consecutively and that their acts are fatal.
Atem said many youths engage in the competition, and the more cattle one has the easier it is to compete for the most beautiful girl.
Atem said the state will need roads in order to link the people and build relationships and friendships across communities.
Atem said government should support business activities, which may in turn change people from looting.
Atem said centralization of the Police, Local Government and teachers among the Southern Sudanese communities and help build friendship.
Atem said people from Jonglei should join the advocacy for peace if the state is to enjoy the fruits of independence.
“The Independence of South Sudan and days to come are an opportunity for youths to participate in the fields of agriculture, and investment activities,” Atem said.