Warrap State government has announced it will temporarily relocate its entire seat of power, including the office of Governor Bol Wek Agoth, to the conflict-affected greater Tonj to quell spiraling inter-communal violence in the area.
In a statement released Tuesday, Warrap State Information Minister Mamer Bath confirmed the move, framing the move as a direct intervention to restore order and demonstrate the government’s resolve.
“As an assurance to the public, the state government is now relocating its seat to the site of violence as an alternative approach and will remain there until a permanent solution to the recurring violence is found in the affected areas,” the statement read.
The decision comes just weeks after a spike in deadly confrontations, particularly in Tonj East County.
Warrap state has long experienced inter-communal conflict for years, primarily fueled by revenge killings and cattle raiding.
To address the violence, President Salva Kiir declared a state of emergency in Warrap State and certain parts within Unity State in June.
The declaration authorized the deployment of additional security forces and granted the government sweeping powers to restore peace.
The move by the state government, taking the administration from its traditional capital of Kuajok to the front lines of conflict, signals a shift in strategy.
Minister Bath reiterated the government’s commitment to uncovering the fundamental issues driving the bloodshed.
“The Warrap state government will investigate the causes of the ongoing communal violence and devise amicable and durable solutions to the chronic vice,” it added.
The physical presence of the governor and his administration in greater Tonj is intended to facilitate direct dialogue, mediate disputes, and oversee the implementation of peace agreements on the ground.
Residents and observers will be watching closely to see if this unusual strategy can succeed where previous efforts have fallen short.
The hope is that bringing the government closer to the people will foster lasting peace and harmony in the communities of Warrap State.
