Eastern Equatoria lawmakers begin three-months recess, governor urges action on conflicts

TORIT – The Eastern Equatoria State Transitional Legislative Assembly adjourned for a three-month recess on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, with Governor Louis Lobong Lojore urging lawmakers to address pressing issues in their constituencies.

Lobong directed the lawmakers to work with county commissioners to tackle cattle-related conflicts, theft, and other forms of communal violence plaguing the state.

He reiterated his call for them to find ways to mobilize local resources to support displaced communities in Magwi County, which he said had been devastated by clashes with cattle herders from Jonglei State.

“Our words should be proven by action,” Lobong said, urging lawmakers to lead by example and prioritize the needs of the people.

He stressed the importance of unity within Eastern Equatoria and the need to protect ancestral lands. “We should not accept an inch of our ancestral land to be taken by anybody,”” he added.

Assembly Speaker Charles Udwar acknowledged the governor’s directives, citing alarming reports of insecurity threatening peace and livelihoods in parts of the state.

He condemned the recent violence in Magwi County, including the burning of homes, destruction of farms, and killings.

“As an assembly, we demand urgent and decisive action from security agencies to protect our people and ensure that those responsible for the atrocities are held accountable,” Udwar said.

Udwar also called on the national government and international partners to provide support for restoring peace and stability in the affected areas and assisting displaced communities.