Gola Boyoi faces challenge in quelling endemic violence in Greater Pibor

JUBA – The newly appointed chief administrator of the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA), Gola Boyoi Gola, faces a daunting task in curbing violence between armed youth in the Jonglei-Pibor region.

Speaking during a welcoming ceremony held in Juba on Friday following his inauguration, Gola said he plans to draw lessons from the governor of Lakes State in addressing the inter-communal conflict.

“Any position has it own challenges, I cannot say – I will do better than you [Ame] but I will try the best I could,” Gola said, referencing his predecessor Lokali Ame. “Now, all of you are excited that I am appointed but that will not last for two, three or four days because I am going to make tough decisions,” he warned.

Gola indicated the security council has requested a briefing on the security situation and potential solutions. “This will help to see, for instance if we need additional deployment of force or cars for patrolling, we will get,” he said.

He called for internal peace dialogues within affected communities ahead of a broader conference, and vowed to address financial mismanagement in Pibor, focusing resources on development.

“If you need development, I am going to be rough, there will be no money to be given to individuals,” Gola stated. He recalled a complaint about a removed teacher’s salary and his plan to hire educators from abroad.

Gola plans to collaborate with hard-working individuals and address the lack of government positions.

He lamented the impact of the rainy season on transport and commodity prices, saying “Presently, the roads are closed due to the rain and a bag of sugar can reach SSP 800.”

He announced a dedicated account for area funds and a plan to contract road construction in December. Gola also intends to hold joint meetings with relevant ministries to tap into Pibor’s resources.

Munira Abdellah, representing Anyuak King Akway Nyigwo, pledged support for Gola if he prioritizes peace, unity, and development, while cautioning chiefs against destabilizing political influence.

“We must at the tenure of Gola as young people, you should rally behind him because youth are dragged into fighting by politicians who need only seats and government positions,” she added.

President Salva Kiir urged Gola to restore peace in collaboration with local leaders.

The welcoming ceremony was attended by high-level officials, including deputy minister of information Jacob Maiju Korok, former deputy minister of information Baba Medan, and Gen David Yau Yau, founder and ex-chief administrator of Pibor.