Vice President Taban Deng Gai has embarked on a critical peace mission, traveling by road to Bentiu while addressing communities caught in escalating violence.
His journey, meant to represent President Salva Kiir Mayardit at the centenary celebration of the Catholic Church in Bentiu on May 11, 2025, has turned into a pressing effort to calm rising tensions in some parts of the country.
Despite ongoing armed confrontations involving civilians and opposition groups, VP Taban made deliberate stops in Awerial, Yirol West, and Rumbek East, urging communities to put aside hostilities and embrace peace.
“The president told me that I should stop here and greet you on his behalf,” said Deng, “He (President) assures you that, despite recent events in Nasir and the subsequent house arrest of Dr. Riek Machar, the government remains fully committed to full implementation of R-ARCSS to prepare the country for development and to give you, the citizens, a chance to choose your leaders through elections in December 2026.”
VP Taban emphasized that law and order must be respected, stating that the government was serious about enforcing peace.
However, the worsening security situation raises questions about whether such declarations will translate into tangible change. Armed youth continue to engage in deadly clashes, exposing the government’s struggles in maintaining control.
While calls for peace may resonate in speeches, for many citizens trapped in cycles of violence, the reality remains unchanged.
