Kiir departed Juba this morning for the regional tour, which will take him to Western Bahr el Ghazal, Warrap, and Northern Bahr el Ghazal states. The visit has attracted significant public attention, with many residents hoping it will address a range of social, political, and community concerns.
A local official in Wau described the turnout as overwhelming, saying the large crowds reflected optimism and confidence in the president’s visit.
“We have all come from Northern Bahr el Ghazal State and, just as we did yesterday in Aweil Town, we are expecting the Head of State to come in peace and deliver speeches that will help address the heated debates and controversies that have recently emerged between critics from Warrap and Northern Bahr el Ghazal on social media,” he said.
Beyond the political significance of the tour, some residents view the visit as an opportunity for the president to reconnect with his ancestral roots. One youth said Kiir is expected to visit Marial Baai Payam in Aweil West County, Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, where he is believed to have ancestral ties.
“He is expected to travel to the far end of Aweil West County after visiting Warrap State and Aweil Town. There, he is likely to pay tribute to his ancestors and liberation veterans from his clan who worked alongside him during the liberation struggle,” the youth said.
The visit comes at a time of heightened tensions between sections of the youth in Warrap and Northern Bahr el Ghazal states following the reported arrest of outspoken Aweil elder Garangdit Aguer. The incident triggered heated exchanges on social media and raised concerns about relations between the neighbouring communities.
Another resident expressed hope that the president would use the tour to ease the tensions and promote unity.
“People are expecting the president to help diffuse the tensions. Youth from Warrap and Mading Aweil have been angry with one another, especially following recent events. We hope his message will encourage calm and understanding,” he said.
Many South Sudanese are also looking to the president’s speeches for guidance on broader national issues, including governance, economic challenges, and the country’s political future as preparations for elections continue.
As Kiir proceeds with his Greater Bahr el Ghazal tour, residents across the region are expected to closely follow his engagements and public addresses, hoping they will provide reassurance and a renewed sense of national unity.
