The African Resources Corporation (ARC) is reportedly preparing to begin demolitions in the coming weeks, a move that has sparked anxiety among local residents who worry about losing their homes and businesses without adequate compensation or relocation support.
The plan, fronted by top political and military figures from the area, was discussed during an impromptu community meeting over the weekend.
Among those in attendance were Division Commander Malong Agat and State Security Advisor Awet Kiir Awet, both of whom urged locals to embrace the government’s demarcation initiative as a prerequisite for development.
Commander Malong told the large crowd — comprising chiefs, women, youth, and businesspeople — that land demarcation was the only pathway to modernizing Madhol Payam.
“It is only through survey and land demarcation that you can achieve development,” Malong said. “No investor will build hotels or industries in a market that is not properly surveyed.”
He added that the process would open space for structured business growth and investment, pledging support from local leaders to fast-track the initiative.
“We shall do what it takes to contribute to the development of this area because it has lagged behind. The first step is to survey and allocate plots accordingly,” he added.
However, the reassurances did little to calm residents’ fears. Many questioned how they would rebuild after the demolitions, citing limited financial means and the lack of clear compensation mechanisms.
State Security Advisor Awet Kiir Awet attempted to allay these concerns, saying the exercise would benefit the community in the long run.
He pointed to recent projects such as the Madhol Field Hospital, constructed with support from the United Arab Emirates through businessman Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, who now serves as the Vice President and Chairman of the Economic Cluster, as examples of positive change in the area.
The ARC was sanctioned by the U.S. Department of the Treasury in December 2021, along with Winners Construction Company Ltd, due to alleged corruption. Both companies are owned by Bol Mel, who is also under sanctions.
“We are working hard to transform Madhol Payam. Accept the demarcation process — it won’t be costly. You’ll be given land portions, while the government retains some areas for development,” Awet said.
He also urged residents to assist patients traveling from other regions to the Madhol Field Hospital, adding that he would engage the governor to ensure the hospital’s management improves access to medical cards and services.
Despite such assurances, community members remain divided. Some view the planned demolition as a step toward progress, while others see it as a threat to their livelihoods.
An intellectual committee has since been formed to consult with residents and coordinate community engagement around the demolition and demarcation plans. Still, uncertainty persists as locals await clarity from both ARC and state authorities on how the process will unfold and whether affected families will receive any form of support.
