Rumbek East County bans alcohol sales to curb youth misbehavior

RUMBEK – Rumbek East County Commissioner Mangar Machuol Malok has imposed a ban on the sale and consumption of all alcoholic beverages within the county’s territory.

The move, announced on Monday, aims to address concerns about alcohol-related behavioral issues among young people.

“We’ve banned all types of alcohol here because it changes the behavior of young people,” Commissioner Malok said. “

Even though they’re generally peaceful when sober, they misbehave after drinking. We don’t want this to escalate and take us back to the past. That’s why we’ve restricted alcohol in towns, villages, and even cattle camps.”

Enforcement challenges exist, particularly in remote cattle camps, where some residents reportedly continue consuming alcohol.

“There are reports of people still drinking, especially in Toch,” Malok admitted.

He emphasized the ban’s continued validity and ongoing enforcement efforts alongside security forces.

“Selling alcohol here is a violation,” Malok declared. “Those caught will be fined according to existing laws, including the 2022 Lakes State customary law and public orders.”

Fines vary depending on the severity of the offense. Confiscated alcohol is destroyed by security forces.

“Running a business that harms society isn’t acceptable,” Malok said. “We encourage those who sold alcohol to explore alternatives. Our fertile land offers opportunities for profitable groundnut cultivation.”

He acknowledged the potential economic impact on some women who previously relied on alcohol sales to support their families.

“he government is committed to supporting these women and their families,” Malok assured. “We want their children to thrive, not suffer from the consequences of alcohol-fueled violence.”

Malok emphasized alternative income possibilities through farming.

“Security has improved, allowing people to freely pursue economic activities,” he said. “This freedom, provided by the government, is a form of support. Now everyone can explore economic opportunities, excluding alcohol sales.”

Sultan Taban Malual Polic, paramount chief of Mathiang-kok Payam in Rumbek East County, echoed the commissioner’s concerns.

“We don’t want any locally brewed or manufactured alcohol brought into the villages,” Polic said. “Alcohol consumption disrupts peace and reconciliation efforts. A recent incident involving someone who drank and caused a disturbance is why we’ve banned alcohol production, sale, and consumption in our villages.”

He stressed the consequences of violating the ban.

“Anyone caught brewing or selling alcohol will face imprisonment,” Polic warned. “Alcohol brings death to the community. We haven’t had any recent deaths by violence, and we want to keep it that way.”

Polic emphasized agriculture as the path forward for the community.

“Young people, cultivate your land with the help of your parents,” he urged. “Don’t let the dollar crisis hold you back. As former President Bashir said, South Sudan’s land is so fertile, even nails would grow as crops. If everyone cultivates, the dollar’s value will naturally decline.”

Polic concluded by reiterating the ban’s seriousness.

“The dollar is for those in towns, not farmers. We won’t tolerate alcohol brewing again. Anyone caught will face a long jail sentence.”