Vice President for the Services Cluster Hussein Abdelbagi Akol has met with representatives of the Rumbek Community Council as he prepares to brief President Salva Kiir and appear before parliament over the controversial allocation of Rumbek Senior Secondary School premises.
The meeting, held in Juba, comes amid mounting pressure on the Vice President following the Transitional National Legislative Assembly’s decision to summon him to explain his role in the decision to allocate the school’s land to Rumbek University of Science and Technology.
A delegation led by Gen. Abraham Mayek Gum presented a formal appeal calling for the reversal of the decision, citing concerns from residents of Lakes State and alumni of the school.
The group argued that the move risks undermining access to secondary education in the area.
Abdelbagi assured the delegation that their concerns would be incorporated into an official report to the President, who also serves as Chancellor of public universities.
He said consultations were ongoing and pledged to provide feedback after engaging with relevant authorities.
According to a statement from his office, efforts are underway to reach an amicable resolution through dialogue and established administrative processes.
Authorities acknowledged that the decision has sparked widespread public debate and was not well received by sections of the community.
The Vice President has already submitted an initial report outlining public concerns and recommendations, with a more comprehensive brief expected to follow after consultations with stakeholders, including the Rumbek Community Council.
“The matter can be resolved amicably through dialogue,” his office said, adding that the government remains committed to finding a solution that serves the interests of all parties involved.
The dispute has drawn national attention, with lawmakers seeking clarity on the circumstances surrounding the allocation. Parliament is expected to question Abdelbagi on the decision-making process, as well as its implications for education and land governance.
The planned meeting with President Kiir is seen as a critical step before the Vice President’s parliamentary appearance, where he is likely to present the government’s position and outline possible remedies to address the concerns raised.
Many say the outcome of the consultations could shape the government’s final decision on whether to maintain, revise, or reverse the allocation, as pressure grows for a resolution that balances higher education expansion with protection of existing institutions.
