REPUBLIC OF SOUTH SUDAN NATIONAL DIALOGUE STEERING COMMITTEE SUB-COMMITTEE FOR UPPER NILE STATE
GRASS-ROOTS CONSULTATIONS FINAL REPORT DETAILS FOR UPPER NILE STATE
December 2018
Report By: Sub-committee For Upper Nile State
www.ssnationaldialogue.org National Dialogue is the Key to Peace, Stability and Economic Prosperity
Healing Negotiation
Reconciliation Mediation National Dialogue ACRONYMS
CPA Comprehensive Peace Agreement
IDPs Internally displaced persons
ND National Dialogue
POC Protection of civilians
UNMISS United Nations Mission in South Sudan
UN United Nations
UNDP United Nations Development Program
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Contents ACRONYMS ...... 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS ...... 3 PART ONE ...... 6 THE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 6 1.0 Introduction and background ...... 6 1.1 National Dialogue structure ...... 6 1.1 Successes and challenges ...... 8 1.2 Attendance List ...... 9 1.3 Summary of the emerging Issues ...... 10 1.4 Recommendations ...... 13 PART TWO ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. DETAILED MINUTES OF THE ND SUB-COMMITEE MEETINGS ...... 15 2.1 CENTRAL UPPER NILE STATE, MALAKAL ...... 15 2.1.1 Consultative meeting with cabinet and legislature...... 15 2.1.2 Opening remarks ...... 15 2.1.3 Open session: Cabinet and legislature meeting (Malakal) ...... 16 2.1.4 Summary of emerging issues: Cabinet and legislature meeting (Malakal) ...... 20 2.1.5 Recommendations: Cabinet and legislature meeting (Malakal) ...... 21 2.2 CENTRAL UPPER NILE STATE, MALAKAL ...... 21 2.2.1 Grass-root consultations with youth and women ...... 21 2.2.2 Opening Remarks ...... 21 2.2.3 Open session: Women and youth (Malakal) ...... 22 2.2.4 Summary of emerging Issues: Women and youth (Malakal) ...... 26 2.2.5 Recommendations: Women and youth (Malakal) ...... 27 2.3 CENTRAL UPPER NILE STATE, MALAKAL ...... 27 2.3.1 Consultative meeting with UNMISS leadership and other UN organs based in Malakal ...... 27 2.3.2 Introduction ...... 27 2.3.3 Open session: UNMISS leadership and other UN organs based in Malakal ...... 28 2.3.4 Summary of emerging Issues: UNMISS leadership and other UN organs (Malakal) ...... 29 2.3.5 Recommendations: UNMISS leadership and other UN organs (Malakal) ...... 29
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2.4 CENTRAL UPPER NILE STATE, MALAKAL ...... 30 2.4.1 Consultative meeting with chiefs and elders ...... 30 2.4.2 Introduction ...... 30 2..4.3 Open session: Chiefs and elders meeting (Malakal) ...... 30 2.4.4 Summary of emerging Issues: Chiefs and elders meeting (Malakal) ...... 33 2.4.5 Recommendations: Chiefs and elders meeting (Malakal) ...... 34 2.5 CENTRAL UPPER NILE STATE, MALAKAL ...... 34 2.5.1 Consultative meeting with the with UNMISS IDPS leadership ...... 34 2.5.2 Introduction ...... 34 2.5.3 Open session: UNMISS IDPs leaders meeting (Malakal) ...... 35 2.5. 4 Summary of emerging Issues: UNMISS IDPs leaders meeting (Malakal) ...... 37 2.5.5 Recommendations: UNMISS IDPs leaders meeting (Malakal) ...... 38 2.6 CENTRAL UPPER NILE STATE, MALAKAL ...... 38 2. 6.1 Consultative meeting with Political parties ...... 38 2.6.2 Introduction ...... 38 2.6. 3 Open session: political parties’ meeting (Malakal) ...... 39 2.6.4 Summary of emerging issues: political parties meeting (Malakal) ...... 42 2.6.5 Recommendations: political parties’ meeting (Malakal) ...... 42 2.7 CENTRAL UPPER NILE STATE-MALAKAL TOWN, SOUTHERN SECTOR...... 43 2.7.1 Consultative meeting with the army and organized forces ...... 43 2.7.2 Introduction ...... 43 2.7.3 Open session: Armed and organized forces meeting (Malakal Town, Southern Sector) ...... 44 2.7.4 Emerging issues: Armed and organized forces meeting (Malakal Town, Southern Sector) ...... 48 2.7.5 Recommendations: Armed and organized forces meeting (Malakal Town, Southern Sector) ...... 48 2. 8 CENTRAL UPPER NILE STATE, OGOT COUNTY ...... 49 2.8.1 Consultative meeting with Chollo community ...... 49 2.8.2 Introduction ...... 49 2.8.3 Open session: Chollo community meeting (Ogot County) ...... 50 2.8.4 Emerging Issues: Chollo community meeting (Ogot County) ...... 54 2.8.5 Recommendations: Chollo community meeting (Ogot County) ...... 54 2.9 NORTHERN UPPER NILE STATE (NUNS) ...... 54 2.9.1 Consultative meeting with government officials and chiefs ...... 55 2.9.2 Introduction ...... 55 2.9.3 Open session: Renk government officials meeting (Nuns) ...... 55 4
2.9.4 Emerging Issues: Government officials and chiefs (Nuns) ...... 57 2.9.5 Recommendations: Government officials and chiefs meeting (Nuns)...... 57 2.10 FASHODA STATE, MANYO COUNTY ...... 58 2.10.1 Consultative meeting with Chollo community and state leadership ...... 58 2.10.2 Introduction ...... 58 2.10.3 Open session: Chollo community (Fashoda State, Manyo County) ...... 59 2.10.4 Emerging Issues: Chollo community (Fashoda State, Manyo County) ...... 62 2.10.5 Recommendations: Chollo community meeting (Fashoda State, Manyo County) ...... 62 2.11 NORTHERN UPPER NILE STATE – RENK CITY COUNCIL PREMISES ...... 62 2.11.1 Consultative meeting with youth, women, elders and chiefs ...... 62 2.11.2 Introduction ...... 62 2.11.3 Open session: Youth, women, elders and chiefs meeting (Renk) ...... 63 2.11.4 Emerging Issues: Youth, women, elders and chiefs meeting (Renk)...... 65 2.11.5 Recommendations: Youth, women, elders and chiefs meeting (Renk) ...... 66 2.12 NORTHERN UPPER NILE STATE, MELUT COUNTY ...... 66 2.12.1 Consultative meeting with the government and traditional authorities...... 66 2.12.2 Introduction ...... 66 2.12.3 Open session: Government and traditional authorities (Melut County) ...... 67 2.12.4 Emerging Issues: Government and traditional authorities (Melut County) ...... 68 2.12.5 Recommendations: Government and traditional authorities (Melut County) ...... 68 2.12 NORTHERN UPPER NILE STATE, EASTERN MABAN COUNTY-BUNJ ...... 69 2,13.1 Consultative meeting with women, youth and traditional authorities ...... 69 2.13.2 Introduction ...... 69 2.13.3 Open session: Women, youth and traditional authorities (Eastern Maban County-Bunj ...... 71 Rebecca Budi (Women Representative) ...... 71 2.13.4 Emerging Issues: Women, youth and traditional authorities (Eastern Maban County-Bunj ...... 73 2.13.5 Recommendations: Women, youth and traditional authorities (Eastern Maban County-Bunj .... 73
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PART ONE
THE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1.0 Introduction and background
To address the political crisis in South Sudan, H.E. President Salva Kiir called a National
Dialogue (ND) on December 14, 2016. The President noted that the ND was both a forum and process through which the people of South Sudan can come together to redefine the basis of their unity as it relates to nationhood, and sense of belonging.
The ND had the mandate to gather views from various stake-holders across South Sudan answering two generic questions:
a) What are the fundamental root causes of the problems affecting South Sudan?
b) What are the possible solutions to address these problems and salvage the country
from the current crisis?
1.1 National Dialogue structure The National Dialogue is composed of people from different political parties, faith-based groups, civil society organizations, academia and Elders Click here to view the National Dialogue structure. The structure comprises the leadership, secretariat and steering committee. The steering committee consists of sub-committees whose mandate had been to organize and hold consultative forums and document all inputs.
The ND was not meant to replace the peace agreement but was a bottom-up conversation, powered by grassroots consultations. The local consultations informed the agendas of regional peace conferences, and ultimately the national conference. The ND process began November
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2017 and was concluded in 2018 with a national conference to end conflicts and find lasting solutions for peace, stability and prosperity in the country.
UNDP provided support to enhance inclusivity, wider participation, transparency and credibility of the dialogue process, especially to those who may potentially had been excluded from the dialogue. This report is also part of the UNDP technical support. This document is a detailed report of what transpired. The report is in two parts. Part One is a summary of the outreach while Part Two contains detailed transcripts of verbatim comments, summary of emerging issues and recommendations for each consultative meeting.
1.2 National Dialogue Upper Nile State In November 2017 the sub-committee for the Upper Nile State conducted the first leg of consultative meetings. Initially this was to cover five states namely Central Upper Nile State, with its headquarters in Malakal, Northern Upper Nile state with the headquarters in Renk,
Fashoda State whose capital is Kodok, Maiwut and Latjor with their headquarters in Maiwut and
Nasir respectively.
Thirteen consultative meetings in three states of Central Upper Nile State, Fashoda and Northern
Upper Nile State were subsequently held, reaching out to a total of 1235 people. The remaining two states were scheduled to be visited later due to security concerns. The table below gives a breakdown of the consultative meetings held in the Upper Nile State.
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Table 1: Number of grassroot consultative meetings held
State Number of meetings
Central Upper Nile State 8
Fashoda 1
Northern Upper Nile State 4
Consultative meetings in the three states were held with cabinet and legislature, women, youth, elderly, chiefs and other traditional authorities, army and organized forces, political parties,
United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and the Chollo community. Meetings in
Central Upper Nile State were held with various stakeholders in Malakal and Ogot County on the western bank of River Nile. In Fashoda State the team held one meeting with government officials, chiefs and women and youth in Manyo County-Wadakona. The ND sub-committee could not access other areas as it failed to secure logistical support from UNMISS. UNMISS attributed the reason to shortage of speed boats. In Northern Upper Nile State, four consultative meetings were conducted in Renk, Melut and Maban.
1.1 Successes and challenges The participation of the governments in states visited and the (UNMISS) contributed to the success of the process as they ensured the smooth facilitation of the movement of the ND sub- committee team to various locations. The active engagement of stakeholders was an important factor and was a demonstration that South Sudanese were interested in contributing to lasting peace in the country.
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The ND process was an eye-opener to some stakeholders who were not aware of the process.
This was due to lack of promotion of the visits and their purpose. In addition, most of the population had little or no formal education and access to information.
1.2 Upper Nile State Sub-Committee members and Secretariat Table 2: The List of the Members of Upper Nile Region Sub-Committee S/No Name In Full Designation 1. Hon. Simon Kun Pouch Chairperson 2. Dr. Joseph Nyok Abiel D/Chairperson 3. Hon. Tabitha Guang Member 4. Hon. Lydia John Jok Member 5. Dr. Arun Lual Ruun Member
Table 3: List of the Secretariat Team in the Sub-Committee
S/No Name in Full Unit/Department
1. Agade Obang Aballa Documentation
2. Marko Bol Monydhar Documentation
3. Hon. Rev. Jacob Lem Chan Research
4. Lokilling John Mukaire Finance
5. Kat Deng Chol Logistics & Operation
6. Abraham Felix Bodi SSBC Reporter
7. Saed Juma Noah SSBC Cameraman
8. Sunday Edward Lasu SSBC Radio Reporter
Table 4: Shows the Stakeholders Consulted by the Sub-committee 9
Date Stakeholders consulted Locations covered
08/11/2017 Executive and Legislature Central Upper Nile-Malakal
10/11/ 2017 Youth and Women Central Upper Nile-Malakal
11/11/2017 UNMISS Leadership Central Upper Nile-UNMISS
11/11/2017 Chiefs Central Upper Nile-Malakal
13/11/2017 IDPs Leadership Central Upper Nile-UNMISS
14/11/2017 Political Parties Central Upper Nile-Malakal
15/11/2017 Armed units Officers Central Upper Nile-Malakal
16/11/2017 Chollo Community Central Upper Nile-Ogot County
20/11/2017 Gov. Officials & Chiefs Northern Upper Nile-Renk
21/11/2017 Govt. and Community Fashoda State-Wadakona
23/11/2017 Youth, women, & elderly Northern Upper Nile-Renk
25/11/2017 Gov. & Traditional Auth. Northern Upper Nile-Melut
26/11/2017 Youth, women and chiefs Northern Upper Nile-Maban
1.3 Overview of emerging issues Stakeholders in the three states were urged to freely and openly express their views and
opinions without fear of harassment and intimidation. There was optimism about the
process although lack of time was cited as a limiting factor. There were also widespread
10 calls to include views of rebels with fears that excluding them from the process would not guarantee peace. The below table is an outline of issues raised by stakeholders in the visited states. The issues can be grouped into three themes of politics and governance; socio-economic and welfare and security related and transparency and accountability issues. Stakeholders identified these issues as the cause of political instability.
Fig 1: Summary of emerging issues in three states in Upper Nile State
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Divisive Lack of policies used by Cattle accountability the government rustling/raiding Lack of the Administrative Lack of service rule of law failure and poor delivery to the Land and governance citizens border disputes Marginalization Unfair Illegal arms in of some distribution of the hands of communities national civilians Rewarding the resources rebels with high restore chiefs
political and powers econmic econmic and welfare military - border disputes positions.
youth Political and governance Political National army employment (SPLA) looting Socio creation and taking sides in communal Upaid salaries conflicts and reforming civil service Creation of more states in Hate speech by the country churches and media Power struggles among the Joint politicians conference of accountability and transparency Security, chiefs The politicians inciting the Rebels must be citizens against consulted each other Tribalism and nepotism practiced by politicians Elections
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1.4 Summary and recommendations The ND leadership implored on participants to the meetings to contribute their views without fear. It was through telling their stories that the truth would be known, and solutions found. The
ND's mandate was to listen and take views which were to be discussed regionally and nationally.
While others commended the dialogue for providing an outlet for people to express their grievances, providing home grown solutions, others were critical of it, citing lack of ceasefire, non-inclusion of refugees, rebels and the inclusion of members who were being accused of corruption.
Consulted stakeholders in the three states made recommendations related to the themes that were mentioned in the emerging issues. A summary of the recommendations is detailed below.
Political and governance Security, transparency and Socio and economic welfare issues accountability issues
Hold free and fair Promote rule of law and enact Ensure delivery services elections laws that hold politicians to the citizens; Develop a national accountable for wrong doings; Payment of salaries on agenda and promote Draft security laws that time and reform of civil attainment of power promote accountability among service through the ballot box armed forces; Restore 1956 borders not the barrel of guns Development of a between communities which have led to comprehensive recruitment which stakeholders devastating war process for the national army claimed served justice for Promotion of to be prerogative of the central all the citizens; forgiveness and government; Create employment for reconciliation by Professional training of the youth; politicians; national army Empower the local
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Appoint an internal Review process to integrate traditional authority to boundary committee to rebels into the national army exercise their influence on address land disputes which must include a how to bring peace in the between states, counties, professionally conducted audit country and hold joint Payams and other of ranks and positions obtained chiefs conference; administrative units; in the bush to curb violence Reconstruction of state To ensure and rebellion; boundaries to promote implementation of the Include rebels in ND coexisting of different 2015 peace accord in consultations; tribal groups; letter and spirit; Training of national army Incorporate rebels in the Review the number of Institute a comprehensive ND subcommittees to states; disarmament program to end ensure success of the Creation of Maban State conflict peace process; Media and churches must
stop promoting hate
speech and propaganda
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PART TWO DETAILED MINUTES OF THE ND SUB-COMMITEE MEETINGS
2.1 CENTRAL UPPER NILE STATE, MALAKAL
November 8 2017
2.1.1 Consultative meeting with cabinet and legislature
2.1.2 Opening remarks The meeting opened with a prayer to God to guide the process and bestow wisdom and
understanding among stakeholders. The Governor of Central Upper Nile State, Hon.
James Tor Monybuny, praised the President and the government for initiating the
National Dialogue (ND). He said the process promoted access to freedom of speech which
was important to achieving peace.
The head of Upper Nile Sub-committee, Hon. Simon Kun Pouch said as a commitment to
the process, the President signed agreements in 2015; in November 2016 and initiated the
ND and reconstituted its independent committee in 2017.
“We are here to consult with our people; to let people talk and tell us the root causes of
these problem, how we can resolve them, how can we unite and reconcile. South Sudan is
owned by you the ordinary citizens, not the politicians. We must talk about what must be
implemented. ND is a process that can heal wounds and can provide a way forward. It is a
free process where nobody will be intimidated for what he/she said,” Kun explained.
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The grassroot consultations preceded a regional conference in Malakal to discuss results
and draft recommendations. The consultations were being held ahead of a national
conference which was to be held in the capital, Juba, in 2018, to discuss resolutions of the
various sub-committees.
Kun was pleased the Governor of Central Upper Nile had already begun the reconciliation
process in the state which had encouraged people to attend the consultations. The people’s
involvement was important so that the process would not become a monologue by
government. He urged forgiveness if peace and rebuilding of the nation was to prevail in
the country. Peace and stability would stop the abuse of national resources by outsiders
who were taking advantage of the conflict.
The Deputy Chairman of the ND Sub-committee, Dr. Nyok Abiel expressed his gratitude
that the meeting was in his constituency. He was also pleased the ND originated from the
President and the process belonged to the people. His understanding of the ND was a
process that will bring peace, unity, reconciliation and development. He commended the
President for his commitment to this process by ensuring transparency, credibility and
inclusivity by declaring amnesty and freeing prisoners. He encouraged the people to speak
out and come up with solutions. Hon. Tabitha Guang advocated for reconciliation and
forgiveness. She urged people to freely express their views and own the process.
2.1.3 Open session: Cabinet and legislature meeting (Malakal) Deputy Governor {name}
He said the ND was an awareness outreach to the people to learn of the political process
and how they can participate in restoring peace, stability and healing in the country.
Hon. Speaker of SLA {name} 16
He commended the sub-committee members of the ND which he said was composed of reputable people known to the area. He remarked that the problem of South Sudan was politically motivated. There was lack of law enforcement and impunity as people failed to account for the crimes they committed. He criticized the integration system which he said rewarded rebels. This had encouraged people to abuse the system and using it as a means of getting employment “because you go to the bush for six months and come with ranks”.
He urged that to stop if peace was to prevail.
Hon. Brig. John Kur Chol (Commissioner of Atar)
He said the ND was long over-due. People of the Greater Upper Nile Region were the most vulnerable in this political rift. He called on those who may still be fighting to stop, forgive and join the dialogue.
He accused politicians of causing confusion. He cited the people living under Protection of
Civilians (POC) in Central Upper Nile as ready to assume a normal life but were reluctant due to conflicting reports they received from politicians. He urged for more transparency by ensuring access to information about what transpired at the consultation processes.
Hon. Peter Riek Thon (Chairperson in the Assembly)
He urged people to speak out if the truth is to be known. He believed there were two accounts of the conflict. The true story was that since 2013 the country experienced a power struggle hence a political conflict. However, it was turned into a tribal (ethnic) conflict or war. He questioned the notion of protection by UNMISS and suggested to the government to reconsider the POCs so that people resume living normal lives.
Hon. Gabriel Nyawela {position}
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He said the ordinary citizens of South Sudan were ignorant of what happened in 2013.
Citizens had been used as political pawns by politicians for their own selfish ends. He claimed the politicians confused the people by suggesting that tribalism was the problem such as the Dinka tribe dominating all government positions and taking other people’s land. The real problem was rewarding rebels with positions of authority in government without not making them accountable for their crimes. The other problem was failure to define borders. He suggested setting up of border committees and a review of the 1956 internal borders.
Hon. Simon Kiir Adieng {position}
He accused outsiders of inciting the violence in the country so that they could steal the country’s resources such as oil, land, fish, etc. He claimed these outsiders had developed ways of fanning divisions and stirring anger among the different tribes such as the Dinka,
Nuer, Shilluk. This could only be ended through unity.
Secondly, people and politicians had to be made accountable for their crimes as no one was above the law. He also opposed rewarding dissidents with ranks and position.
Hon. Monyluak Machar Bill Kuey {position}
He suggested that the dialogue process should have begun with politicians in Juba who caused confusing among the ordinary citizens. Often ordinary people were caught unawares and suffered tremendously for issues which they had nothing to do with. The politicians looked for positions in Juba but when they failed to get them, they incited people into conflict. Politicians owed the truth to the ordinary citizens. He accused Dr.
Riek Machar and Dr. Lam Akol for refusing to endorse the ND describing them as the ring
18 leaders of violence who should be excluded from South Sudanese communities. He said the ND was not a new concept but had first been introduced by the late John Garang so that South Sudanese would solve their differences.
Hon. Bioch Kor
He believed the country was facing was a repeat of what Dr. Machar and Dr. Akol did in
1991 when they killed people in Bor. This was because they were not held responsible in the court of law. Secondly, he criticized international organizations such as UNMISS for causing the conflict by supporting the violence. He recommended the dismissal of
UNMISS from the country if peace was to prevail.
Hon. Nyachol Lual Kieth
Nyachol said women and children bore the brunt of war. She accused the army for destroying houses, looting and killing people instead of protecting them. He accused politicians for only interested in power. She said elections were the only way for people to choose their leaders. Positions must be acquired not because of guns but through ballots.
Hon. Daniel Wadok (Minister of Agriculture)
He said the Upper central state was facing serious divisions which often resulted in tribal violence among Dinka, Shilluk and Nuer. Politicians both inside and outside of the country, including, Dr Riek Machar and President Salva Kiir, were confusing and causing divisions and diverting people’s attention from the national problem. He said Central
Upper Nile was in urgent need of a reconstruction process.
Hon. James Maluk Majok (Commissioner, Baliet)
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He said the three tribes in Central Upper Nile namely Dinka, Shilluk and Nuer repeatedly
clashed over cattle raiding, gun possession and land disputes. Dinkas claimed the Eastern
Nile and Chollo were believed to reside in the western bank of the Nile. Shilluk maintained
they owned part of the eastern Nile too. The division of the states had been done without
consultations. The government was responsible for the current conflict in Central Upper
Nile. All tribes felt they had been marginalized and short changed on land.
Hon. Achuil Abol Ayik (legislator)
The country had good laws but lacked implementation. His opinion was that it was too
early to talk about decentralization or federalism. He proposed revisiting the laws to restore
power to local authorities. He said the government had imposed tribalism on the people.
He raised concerns over deploying citizens to work in their own states. Previously people
were deployed in different parts of Sudan and they would be given due respect. He urged
the people to embrace each other in unity and harmony.
2.1.4 Summary of emerging issues: Cabinet and legislature meeting (Malakal) 1. Rewarding rebels instead of punishing them;
2. Politicians inciting the ordinary citizens to acquire positions;
3. Internal border disputes between states and tribes;
4. Cattle raiding matters;
5. Lack of rule of law;
6. Divisive governance policy;
7. Foreigners instigating war in South Sudan.
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2.1.5 Recommendations: Cabinet and legislature meeting (Malakal) 1. Holding rebels and politicians accountable for their acts whether good or bad to
discourage conflict;
2. Forming internal border committees to address the internal border disputes;
3. Implementing laws without favor;
4. Deploying administrators in different states or areas apart from their own;
5. Conduct elections so that the government are owned by people;
6. Stop rewarding rebels with ranks after returning from the bush;
7. Confidence building between tribes of Upper Nile state;
8. Reconstruction of Central Upper Nile State which was badly affected by the
conflict.
2.2 CENTRAL UPPER NILE STATE, MALAKAL November 10 2017
2.2.1 Grass-root consultations with youth and women
2.2.2 Opening Remarks The chairman of the ND Sub-committee, Hon. Simon Kun Puoch, thanked youth and
women for attending the meeting. He explained that the ND was initiated and introduced
by the President to solve political problems that the 2015 peace agreement signed in Addis
Ababa could not address.
His committee attached a lot of respect to voices of youth and women who often suffered
the most in war times. He would ensure their voices are incorporated at the national level.
His deputy in the Sub-committee, Dr. Joseph Nyok Abiel, also urged the youth and
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women to express their grievances and how these can be resolved as the ND was
committed to finding peace in the country.
A sub-committee member, Hon. Tabitha Guang, described women as the source of life
and the first victims of any conflict. She stressed that the ND will be a source of real peace
to South Sudanese, particularly, women. Guang accused politicians of being blood suckers
and inciting tribal violence. She said the ND offered an opportunity for citizens to
articulate their experiences and how the conflict can be addressed.
Hon. Lidia John said the team was not campaigning for positions but was there to listen to
what people had to say and this included the voices of the youth and women.
2.2.3 Open session: Women and youth (Malakal)
Elizabeth Mayik (woman)
She said many children had perished or displaced by war and only a few were left in the
country. Many women had been widowed. She accused politicians for the country‘s crisis
because they used force to get power. UNMISS misled the people by misinforming them
of what was happening in the country, especially among those in the POC. Youth and
women should shun being used and misled to engage in in wars. She called for
reconciliation and forgiveness among citizens.
Rebecca Nyannyok (woman)
She said since 1988 the people of Dinka Ngok Community in Malakal have had many
attacks from other tribes such as Nuer and Shilluk, but they had never retaliated because
22 the Dinka Ngok Community were peace loving people. She urged those in the POC to be released and contribute to peace in the country.
Anger Ayen (woman)
Though from Dinka Ngok, she is married to a Nuer man. She said God was always in support of peace and God will help achieve it. She said people should see South Sudanese women first before tribes.
Kuanykou Chan (woman)
She said what started as a political war between those struggling for power in Juba turned to tribal war between Dinka and Nuer in the Upper Nile state. She said politicians were to blame for deceiving people. She asked if the politicians had embraced the ND process because it was important for unity.
Mary Kun Gatluak (woman)
She said women of Greater Upper Nile had no problems and urged the sub-committee and government to give attention to problems in the POCs.
Arec Ngok (woman)
She asked: “Why are we yearning for peace?” She wanted President Kiir to remain in power for as long as he wished because nobody, according to her, was qualified to take over. She was unhappy with Pagan Amum because he did not engage his constituency and did not prioritize the Upper Nile. She also wanted the UNMISS POCs to be released and contribute towards developing the country.
Nyanyapanru (woman)
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She commended the capturing of Malakal by the SPLA forces, saying it had contributed to peace in the region.
Nyanchol Lual (woman)
Nyanchol complained of land grabs between the communities of Dinka of Central Upper
Nile State and Chollo of Fashoda State. She appealed for honesty and sincerity in peace building. Future generations had to learn how to love not killing. She called for tolerance of the diversity around South Sudan.
Chol Ayok (male youth)
He welcomed the ND Sub-committee and its work to address the issues hindering peace in the country. He stressed the need to identify the root causes of South Sudan’s conflicts and how they can be addressed. He blamed the SPLM leadership for power struggles which were at the center of the problems in the country. He said the ND should be between Riek
Machar and Kiir Mayardit and not between President Kiir and civilians. This is because civilians were not fighting for any political seats.
He pointed out that communal conflicts in the state were caused by different factors such as land disputes between Dinka and Chollo, cattle rustling between Dinka and Nuer as well as property grabbing. He appealed for fresh border demarcations as a way of promoting peaceful coexistence among communities. He expressed the area’s readiness to dialogue.
Monywiir Yor (male youth)
He asked the following:
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Who is dialoging with who? This is because he assumed the crises to be between the
politicians only but not between the politicians and civilians and therefore requested the
ND sub-committee to bring the rivaling parties to dialogue among themselves rather than
coming down to civilians.
What is UNMISS doing here in South Sudan? This was because he claimed the instigation
for the conflict was from the UNMISS but not from South Sudanese themselves.
Is UNMISS authorized by South Sudan’s Government or does it come alone without
mandate?
He said people of Central Upper Nile State longed for peace for it was conducive for development and freedom of movement and association He accused external forces for aiding the crisis, inciting tribal violence and killings.
Keu Thon (male youth)
He said politicians who were benefitting from the conflicts by clinging to power were the country’s major problem. Politicians were turning into rebels and using the bush to start conflicts when relieved from their positions. He stressed the problems in capital city, Juba, must be addressed first before involving people in dialogues. This was because on the date of the meeting there was a raw between the government and Gen. Paul Malong in Juba City. He castigated politicians who sent their children to stay abroad wasting resources that could be better utilized to develop the country. He called for tolerance, admission of wrong doing, forgiveness, youth dialogues and an end to tribalism and ethnicities.
Juma Aru (male youth)
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He was disappointed that the conflict of South Sudan was not ending and demanded to know why. His of opinion was that the unending conflict was fueled by the UNMISS who influenced tribalism instead of protecting civilians from war. People should vote along political party lines rather than tribal lines and refrain from choosing leaders who always rebelled against the nation.
He said politicians were using rebellion for their own gains. He recommended that rebellion be a punishable offence. He called for equitable distribution of resources to end hunger in the country.
Aluel Kou (female youth)
She appealed for roads linking states to be opened and promote free movement for businesses to operate. The country needed a leader who was able to protect the properties of the citizens including cattle, from looters.
Philip Ajak (male youth)
There was need for a joint dialogue between two rivaling groups. He said the SPLM party had after the CPA (comprehensive peace agreement) lost vision and lost the love of the people. He said the party had based its governance on tribal lines because of political greed.
There was need for accountability and transparency to fight corruption. He urged for the truth to be told. He warned against democracy before the corrective measures are put in place.
2.2.4 Summary of emerging Issues: Women and youth (Malakal) 1. End land grabbing;
2. Stop tribalism;
3. Halt cattle rustling;
4. Interfering and confusion caused by politicians must be ended.
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2.2.5 Recommendations: Women and youth (Malakal)
1. The ND to bring together the warring parties to the round table for direct talks;
2. Peaceful transfer of power through ballot box;
3. The national government should demarcate internal boundaries to stop land disputes;
4. Politicians should refrain from basing their political careers on tribal lines;
5. The ND process should continue until peace is attained;
6. There must be equitable distribution of the national resources;
7. There must be a disarmament process to remove arms from illegal users and improve the
national army and peace for innocent civil population in South Sudan.
2.3 CENTRAL UPPER NILE STATE, MALAKAL November 11 2017
2.3.1 Consultative meeting with UNMISS leadership and other UN organs based in Malakal
2.3.2 Introduction The ND sub-committee met the UNMISS leadership of Malakal for the purposes of finding ways of including the IDPs residing in UNMISS POCs in northern part of Malakal Town to participate in the ND process. The meeting was also to devise a tentative plan for the ND processes around the region.
Hon. Simon Kun Puoch (Chairman for ND Sub-committee for Upper Nile)
Hon. Simon Kun stressed the need for meeting the IDPs in the POCs as important. It was crucial to facilitate the movement of the ND sub-committee to meet them.
27
2.3.3 Open session: UNMISS leadership and other UN organs based in Malakal Head of UNMISS (Ms. Hazel De Wit)
She welcomed the ND Sub-committee and wanted to find out how her organization could be of assistance to the process and how the IDPs staying in POCs in Malakal would participate in the dialogue.
Her organization needed to be consulted in advance to be able to facilitate travel of the ND sub- committee as some areas in the Upper Nile Region such as Nasir, Maiwut and Pagak were insecure, risky and inaccessible because of bad roads caused by rains.
She said while the work of the international community would not bring peace directly, it the international community had a role to facilitate, support and fund the peace processes. She told the meeting that UNMISS was taking care of children born in the POCs. She pointed out that countries that had gone through similar situations like South Sudan had witnessed peace. The same could be true for South Sudan if the people were willing to adopt peaceful resolutions.
Head of UNHCR (Mr. Whycliffe Songwa)
He appreciated and welcomed the arrival of the ND sub-committee. He requested the ND sub- committee meets the Sudanese Refugees, especially those located at Maban, the north-eastern part of the region. He said it was important to promote peaceful coexistence of the refugees with the local communities.
Brig. Gen. Xie Zhijun (UNMISS Commander)
He expressed gratitude to the ND Sub-committee for consulting the people for solutions to the national crises and conflicts. He said UNMISS were peacekeepers who had the role of
28 maintaining peace in the country. He assured the meeting that the UNMISS stood ready to support the ND processes.
Agyenta Anthony (UNMISS)
He feared the consultation process would be turned into a blame game platform and not achieve its objectives of finding solutions. He believed people would fear to speak out as there was no assurance of protection. He appealed to ND to pay a second visit to the area.
Hon. Simon Kun Puoch (Chairman ND Sub-committee)
In response to the raised concerns, Hon. Simon stressed that the ND Sub-committee was committed to taking all views from different groups. He said there was no need for people to fear voicing their opinions because the ND was only concerned with identifying solutions to the
South Sudan crisis.
2.3.4 Summary of emerging Issues: UNMISS leadership and other UN organs (Malakal) 1. Inclusion of IDPs in the UNMISS POCs in the ND process;
2. Security concerns for IDPs after expressing their views;
3. Facilitation problems due to insecurity in some of parts of the state.
2.3.5 Recommendations: UNMISS leadership and other UN organs (Malakal) 1. Find ways to meet with the IDPs in the POCs;
2. UNMISS to facilitate the movement of the ND team to risky areas;
3. Arrangement of flights for ND team.
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2.4 CENTRAL UPPER NILE STATE, MALAKAL November 11 2017
2.4.1 Consultative meeting with chiefs and elders
2.4.2 Introduction The Governor of Central Upper Nile State Hon James Tor Monybuny welcomed the chiefs and the National Dialogue team. The Head of Upper Nile Sub-committee, Hon. Simon Kun Pouch explained that his team’s mission was to unearth root causes of the South Sudan conflict following the collapse of the peace deal signed between President Salva Kiir and Dr. Riek
Machar. The ND was formulated to get answers through consultative meetings with the people.
The voices of chiefs were important.
The deputy of the ND sub-committee, Dr. Joseph Nyok, described the elders as the eyes, ears and noses and above all the voices of the ordinary citizens of any country. They knew the truth and the root causes of the conflict. A member of the sub-committee, Tabitha Guang, stated that chiefs were among the most affected by conflict. She encouraged the chiefs and elders of Central
Upper Nile to talk without fear. Guang promised that the team would not censor the chiefs’ contributions.
Hon. Lydia John Jok said the politicians were the cause of failure of this country. When things go wrong it was always good to go back to the grassroots such as the elders in the community.
She encouraged the chiefs to talk openly by expressing everything in their hearts and help restore the glory of Malakal and Upper Nile Region.
2..4.3 Open session: Chiefs and elders meeting (Malakal) Chief James Kiir Wall
30
He said the chiefs of the area were against the killings that were going on in the country. He thanked the President for initiating the ND. He had a problem with the division of the states, particularly the Central Upper Nile State. Hence, he called on the President to create another state in Central Upper Nile the Chollo.
Chief Adam Ajak
He stated that the country’s problems originated from politicians’ fights for positions. The political fights usually spilt into the communities. He castigated property grabs and illegal possessions of guns. He reported that 7,000 cattle had been lost to soldiers. He said these cattle must be returned. He asked: “Do we want to finish ourselves? Do we want to lower our hoisted flag?” He said there was no need for tribal divisions as historically these tribes were inter-related.
For example, he said various Dinka tribes were related to Shilluk of different clans.
Chief James Abal Mayor
He traced the problem of South Sudan to 1991 when Riek Machar killed a lot of innocent people.
He believed Riek and his tribe had inflicted a lot of suffering on a lot of South Sudanese. He also blamed political killings on young men and women at Shilluk in 2016 on UNMISS. South
Sudanese should put the interest of the country first. He said the Dinka community in the area was peaceful and was ready to coexist with other tribes.
John Kuol Deng (Chief)
Chief John Kuol joined in the accusation against politicians, saying they were responsible for the problems in the country including the killing of innocent civilians and causing political confusion among the people. They also lacked political will to solve the problems. Politicians were rewarded for wrong doings. He wondered what happened as in the past different tribes
31 intermarried and coexisted peacefully. He said chiefs must be left alone to solve problems in their areas. “We can sit and discuss our issues,” he said. He called for decentralizing of land distribution.
Chief Okot Aba Atukbeer
He commended the work of the ND as very important. His area accommodated Dinka, Nuer and
Shilluk tribes. Border disputes were new in his area. There was need to return to 1st January 1956 border agreement.
Chief Awel Chol Awel
He thanked the ND team and said it was only through peace that people could stay together. He gave a historical explanation to land. Nyikang was staying on the western part of River Nile while Dinka Padang was in the Eastern part. He said there was no need to bring external people to bring peace in the area as the people can find their own solutions. He said chiefs were critical to bringing peace.
Chief Akol Lam Dhothjwok
Chiefs were ready to work out solutions with the people. He said the Nuer were not a problem in
South Sudan. Riek Machar who had taken power though a coup was the problem. Before the coup, the five tribes, Dinka Nuer, Shilluk, Maban and Komo were living in harmony. He said the border with Shilluk is the vast River Nile.
Chief Peter Jau Yor
In his own analysis, the situation in Upper Nile is politically motivated.
Chief Aban Deng Othow
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Aban acknowledged that South Sudanese were not reasonable people. According to him the borders between Sudan and South Sudan were not fully demarcated but South Sudanese were killing themselves over internal borders. “We turn against each other instead of confronting our common enemy,” he said.
Chiefs were tired of war and that is why they were encouraged by the President’s call for peace through the ND. He blamed politicians for all the country’s problems and the non-attendance of school by children. People were desperate for peace, but this was elusive for as long as they continued to lose their houses and land. There was ample land to equitably share.
Chief James Monyjok
He said the ND would foster understanding of different groups. He concurred with the previous speakers who maintained that the border between Chollo and Dinka is River Nile.
2.4.4 Summary of emerging Issues: Chiefs and elders meeting (Malakal) 1. Land and border disputes between Dinka and Chollo community especially over
areas in eastern part of River Nile. Chollo chiefs claim owning land eastern part of
the Nile such as the town of Malakal whereas Dinka maintain that the border
between them and Chollo is River Nile;
2. Occupation of people houses was a contentious issue among the chiefs of Chollo
community and Dinka;
3. Politicians are the cause of the confusion going on in the country;
4. Cattle raiding a contentious issue;
5. Soldiers robbing the properties of civilians.
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2.4.5 Recommendations: Chiefs and elders meeting (Malakal) 1. Formation of Internal Border Committee to address the issue of borders between
states, counties and communities in Central Upper Nile State;
2. Restoration of 1956 borders to end the land disputes among the community;
3. Leadership should punish politicians who incite violence;
4. Giving power to local communities, through chiefs, to come up with their own
solutions to peace and harmony.
2.5 CENTRAL UPPER NILE STATE, MALAKAL November 13 2017
2.5.1 Consultative meeting with the with UNMISS IDPS leadership
2.5.2 Introduction Benjamin Walter (Head of Civil Affairs Division UNMISS)
Mr. Walter explained that the purpose of the meeting was to find ways in which the IDPs can participated in the ND. He said the fact that the IDPs stay in POCs did not exclude them from participating in South Sudan affairs. UNMISS was there to offer protection. He underscored the importance of national dialogue not only to South Sudanese but outsiders who were keen to invest in the development of the country.
Hon. Simon Kun (Chairman of ND Sub-committee Upper Nile)
He said the ND sub-committee team mandate was to listen to contributions of all South Sudanese people including the IDPs.
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2.5.3 Open session: UNMISS IDPs leaders meeting (Malakal) Gatwich Bithow (Chairman for Peace and Reconciliation Council at POCs)
Mr. Gatwich expressed concern that people in POCs were left out of political processes by
UNMISS. He said dialogue could not take place unless people observed the 2015 peace accord.
He recommended a minimum of 10 states.
Shadam Adieng (Member of the peace council)
Shadam said talks to resolve political issues were long overdue. He wanted assurance that IPDs would be released from the POCs and offered protection. He believed peace would come from the top-bottom and not vice-versa.
Dak Thomas (Youth representative)
He was skeptical whether real peace will be achieved and the success of the dialogue process. He also recommended 10 states, saying more than that will make the work of the ND complicated.
He said he hoped the people of South Sudan would promote and respect the ceasefire agreement before embarking on the ND process. Only ceasefire will encourage dialogue.
Only one mediated roundtable of the two conflicting sides will bring peace. It was the wish of the POCs for peace to prevail before the ND process. He said the politicians of the country were oblivious to the needs and wellbeing of citizens.
Jokino Nyijak (Youth secretary of Information)
Jokino shared the same sentiments with previous speakers who expressed the view that there should be peace before the ND was conducted. He cited the South-South dialogue that was conducted after the CPA and signed in Niavasha, Kenya in 2005 but failed. He feared the same may happen to the ND process if war and land disputes between the two communities of Dinka 35
Ngok and Shilluk were on-going. He recommended that the country be placed under UN
Trusteeship until peace was attained or until 2020. Like previous speakers he said 10 states would be ideal. In his opinion, this would bring Dinka, Shilluk, Maban and Nuer to own
Malakal.
Racheal {surname} (Women chairperson {of what}
She inquired whether a judge who was taking sides can rule a case brought before him fairly or not. She was referring to Hon. Simon Kun whom she claimed was not supposed to be the head of the ND Sub-committee to Greater Upper Nile when he was part and parcel of the Malakal crises.
She said women in the POCs were longing for real peace. She asked whether South Sudanese came out of the then Sudan to rule along tribal lines. She said they were living in POCs not out of choice, but for fear of being killed.
Nyakuach {surname} (Woman)
She expressed bitterness that government had abandoned them. She said they felt disowned.
Josephine James (Woman)
She spoke of women living in fear of rape. She said whenever women in the POCs go hunting for food they were raped by the soldiers while their men were killed. This left her wondering if she is still in South Sudan with the same rights as others.
Deng Amum (Elder)
Deng suggested that the ND Sub-committee for Upper Nile Region should not be headed by a person who came from Upper Nile like Simon Kun. Someone outside the area should have headed it to make the process fair, free and transparent.
36
Aban Yor (Man)
He said there could not be peace if there were land grabs and unfair land distribution.
Simon Kon (Man)
He criticized the ND for not being inclusive. He retorted the Dinka was not the only God chosen tribe in South Sudan. He accused Simon Kun for corruption during his political reign, accusing him of not bringing any development to the former Upper Nile State. He said without national reconciliation among South Sudanese and truth telling and transparency, the ND process would not work. He called on to President Kiir to rekindle the August 2015 Addis Ababa peace agreement. He believed South Sudan was fighting a senseless war that had no objectives. He termed it a power struggle between politicians.
Kaliwo Obunan (Man)
He said the leadership of the POCs should conduct door-to-door consultations with the IDPs to gather their views on the ND process or they reject the process. He asked President Kiir to step down from power if he really needs peace in South Sudan. He threatened that power must be transferred peacefully or else they will be an overthrow of the government.
2.5. 4 Summary of emerging Issues: UNMISS IDPs leaders meeting (Malakal) 1. Land distribution in Malakal was an issue;
2. Security for the lives of those residing at POCs;
3. Lack of good governance in the country;
4. Abandon the 32-state policy;
5. Tribalism.
37
2.5.5 Recommendations: UNMISS IDPs leaders meeting (Malakal) 1. Retain the former 10 states in the country for peaceful coexistence among citizens;
2. Facilitate the return of IDPs to their homes;
3. End the war in the country and call for peace among the citizens of South Sudan;
4. Observance of the 2015 peace agreement between warring parties to address
grievances of the citizens;
5. Ceasefire to provide a conducive environment for the dialogue and ensure full
participation of IDPs
2.6 CENTRAL UPPER NILE STATE, MALAKAL November 14 2017
2. 6.1 Consultative meeting with Political parties
2.6.2 Introduction Sub-committee chair of the Upper Nile State Kun Puoch briefed the political parties that the
ND aimed to collect the views of citizens of South Sudan on the root causes of the conflict in the country and how the problem would be ended. Being leaders of ordinary citizens of South
Sudan their contributions were important. The process would be succeeded with a regional conference where the resolutions and recommendations of local consultations would be discussed. The recommendations of the regional conference would be discussed in a national conference in Juba.
The deputy chair of the ND sub-committee in Upper Nile State, Dr. Joseph Nyok explained the
ND was a call for peace, unity, reconciliation, healing and development. The team’s objective was to listen to voices of all groups, including the political parties.
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2.6. 3 Open session: political parties’ meeting (Malakal) Gabriel Nyawela, A Member of SPLM Party
He feared that federalism would divide the country into three countries. He said deployment of organized forces to their own regions will divide further the country. The illegal possession of arms by civilians was a threat to peace. He called for an immediate disarmament. He said civil servants should be paid salaries regularly and on time to avoid them to return to the bush.
Mary Joshua Chan (SPLM)
She welcomed the ND and said it would help reduce the tensions in South Sudan. The dialogue was the only way that would bring the people of South Sudan together. She called on women who were the most vulnerable people in this war to embrace and guard jealously the peace this dialogue would bring.
Monyluak Machar, UDSF
He blamed the ruling party, SPLM for causing divisions through power struggles. He suggested that political parties formulate clear programs and manifestos that will give people informed political choices. He was against federalism. Already the country was struggling with division among citizens of different states. He called for reconciliation. He called for a review of the army recruitment system which was open and transparent to develop a professional army and discourage people from going to fight in the bush.
Muojo Deng Ajak, SPLM DC
He said political parties must be included in leadership of the ND sub-committees across the country. His concern was that many resolutions were made without implementation; citing the resolutions of the South-South dialogue.
39
Agel Lual, SPLM
He applauded the ND process as a nation building process. He called for immediate implementation of the resolutions that would come out from the grassroots consultations. Agel would like to see reduction of number of states to 28. He emphasized that there was no need to increase states to 32 when the government goes for over six months without paying salaries for civil servants. He said salaries should match the current economic situation of the country.
Banansio Guang, SPLM
Guang called on the government to empower youth and unite them because they were the future leaders. He stressed that youth form a great proportion of South Sudan population. He also pointed out that youth are educated and intelligent and must be included in national development agendas.
Koch Isaac Chol (USAP)
He said the ND was an opportunity for citizens to come up with solutions to their problems. If the citizens destroyed the country, they also had a responsibility to rebuild it. His party was working with the SPLM party for peace. He accused the SPLM of practicing tribalism.
Monyjok Aban, SPLM
He viewed the literacy level in South Sudan as a challenge because the majority of South
Sudanese were not educated and hence, they fell victim to political abuse. Rampant tribalism was also a major problem. He was optimistic the ND process would bring home-grown solutions to the current problems. He called on political parties to hold a national conference to gauge their popularity and image with the people. He was in support of 28 states. He decried the current economic situation and called on the government to regulate the United States dollar on the 40 market. In his opinion the United States dollar is the cause of economic hardship the country is going through.
Simon Kiir Adieng, SPLM
He acknowledged that his SPLM party was to blame for most of the country’s problems. He urged forgiveness and support for the ND process to achieve peace and take the country forward.
He called on the government to create an enabling environment to encourage IDPs in POCs and those in the bush to return home. He said one way was to support the people by returning their stolen properties that include houses.
Nyilek Adiek Akoy, SPLM DC
He narrated tribalism, nepotism, marginalization, unfair reward of positions and recruitment of the soldiers as well as lack of trust as some of the weaknesses in South Sudan. He blamed the
SPLM for promoting tribalism. He believed the division of states was done without proper consideration. He alleged the Shilluk had not been paid salaries for over two years.
Bol Monyluak, SPLM
He traced the root causes of the conflict to the 2013 failed coup de tat planned by Riek Machar against President Salva Kiir. This was despite an election where people had voted on their leadership. The creation of more states in addition to the 28 states had fueled tensions. He urged the government to return to the 28 states which had succeeded in dealing with tribal challenges.
He rejected calls of 10 states. The government should be solely responsible for the recruitment of the national army.
Monywach Arok, USAP
41
He shared the same sentiments with previous speakers who blamed the SPLM for the country’s problems, pointing that the party had failed to enforce laws and condoned crimes. People were being killed without anybody accounting for the acts and criminals were walking free. Arok accused the leaders of South Sudan, particularly the SPLM leaders, of lack of patriotism because they educated their children abroad while the country had no enough schools. He believed the current system of recruiting soldiers into the national army was extremely wrong. He cited the
David Yau Yau forces where the whole tribe was integrated into the army. There was need to hold elections by 2018 for legitimacy.
2.6.4 Summary of emerging issues: political parties meeting (Malakal) 1. Review system of governance;
2. Deal with illegal possession of guns by civilians;
3. Review recruitment system of the National Army;
4. Revision of number of states;
5. Make people accountable for their actions;
6. End tribalism, nepotism, marginalization, unfair distribution of resources and lack
of trust;
7. Put systems to deal with power struggles;
8. Find solutions to administrative failure;
9. Salary structures must be in line with economic situation of the country.
2.6.5 Recommendations: political parties’ meeting (Malakal) 1. Decentralized system of governance;
2. Disarmaments to be carried out among the civilians;
3. Stop integrating rebels and introduce transparent recruitment process of the army;
4. Return to 28 states; 42
5. Elimination of all forms of corruption;
6. Enforcement of laws to punish crimes committed;
7. Conduct elections in 2018.
2.7 CENTRAL UPPER NILE STATE-MALAKAL TOWN, SOUTHERN SECTOR November 15 2017
2.7.1 Consultative meeting with the army and organized forces
2.7.2 Introduction The Governor of Central Upper Nile State, Hon. James Tor Monybuny told the meeting that the ND was seeking inputs from everyone including the armed units. “It is your day as soldiers”, he said, “to talk of the things that pain you and the country at large and suggest the way forward for solving them.” National Dialogue was tied to peace. He praised the army for providing security and stability in the states of Fashoda and Central Upper Nile.
The head of the ND Sub-committee of the Upper Nile, Hon. Simon Kun, said the armed units had a responsibility for bringing peace to the country. “What are the reasons for the current conflict and how can we solve them?” he asked. He said the army officers’ views to this question was important.
Deputy chairperson of the ND Sub-committee, Dr. Joseph Nyok said he had been part of almost all peace agreements signed in the country. He explained to the soldiers that his team was there to listen, not to talk. A member of the sub-committee, Hon. Tabitha Guang, said soldiers were the ones to fight when politics go wrong. She urged the armed units to contribute solutions to questions such as: “How can we unite the country?”. 43
Hon. Lydia John Jok, also a member of the sub-committee, called on the armed units to think on how to restore peace to greater Upper Nile, greatest hit by the conflict.
2.7.3 Open session: Armed and organized forces meeting (Malakal Town, Southern Sector) Lt. Col. Martin Monykuer (SPLA)
He said soldiers took instructions from the above. He blamed politicians for confusing the soldiers and using the youth to destroy the country. They incited people, particularly the youth, to violence when they are removed from positions. He said once removed from their positions they go into the bush and recruit private soldiers or civilians without any formal military training and reward them with top positions. When they return from the bush, they are integrated into top army positions. This was a weakness that had destroyed the army.
He was against creation of many states, warning that the country was already divided along tribal politics. He suggested that governors of the states should be appointed to govern in other areas other than their own states. War had destroyed schools and education standards had been compromised.
Brig. Gen. Makuol Ajang Achuol (SPLA)
He told the team of ND that the army was responsible for relative peace and stability in the area.
He challenged those still fighting in the bush to lay down arms and join the peace initiative because they were missing the opportunity to be heard. He said both politicians and civilians were responsible for the conflict in the country. Holding of an election was the only option to remove the incumbent president. The media and churches were also blamed for inciting violence through hate speech and propaganda.
Col. Sabiri Chol Guer Ajak (Police) 44
Politicians were only interested in positions and accumulating wealth. They educated their children abroad, wasting public resources. Most politicians were preoccupied with wanting to take over the position of the President. They promoted propaganda in the media and backbite each other. He called for an uphold of the rule of law and a promotion of integrity.
Lt. Col. Clement Maze Gotho (SPLA)
A soldier’s gun was to defend the territorial integrity of South Sudan and protect civilians in accordance with the constitution. He blamed political greed as destroying the country. He cited how SPLM had split to SPLM IG, SPLM FD, SPLM IO and SPLM DC). He also pointed out that tangible progress was possible if the rule of law was upheld.
Maj. Nyok Padenchol (SPLA)
He believed putting tribes before the country, hunger and lack of professional training in the army were some of the causes of conflicts. He suggested that those in the bush participate in the
ND dialogue and their commanders held accountable for the atrocities committed. He said disarmament was critical to achieving peace and stability.
Brig. Gen. Abdalla Ajak (SPLA IO commander in CUNS)
He said while politicians were to blame, the soldiers’ hands were dirty because they worked with politicians. He said the army had little understanding of their responsibilities and duties. He said some of their responsibilities and duties involved defending the territorial integrity of the country, defending the constitution, and defending the constitutional power. He recommended the formulation of Security Laws to make politicians accountable for their wrong actions.
Brig. Gen. Solomon Chol (Wildlife)
45
Despite liberating the country, the SPLM was responsible for divisions within the party. He proposed laws that discourage rather than reward rebellion. He identified tribal agendas, lack of law and order and unemployment as problems. He also proposed a return to the 1956 land border outlines.
1st Lt. Adhou Char (Prison)
He urged the property grabs by soldiers and inter-tribal conflicts to be addressed. Nepotism was destroying the nation. He appealed for a stop to propaganda.
Maj. John Nyok (Police)
He said if the work of the ND was to be relevant, its resolutions must be implemented. The disarmament process should be a priority.
Capt. Solomon Kuol Achuil (Police)
He cited the lack of clear borders between states, counties or payams and lack of loyalty to the nation as problems. In addition, he blamed the SPLM for contributing to factionalism which had led to the killing of people and destruction of the country.
Maj. John Mayar Kiir (Police)
He said the division of states decreed by the President would not solve the problem instead it will divide the country further.
S/M Joseph Malek (SPLA)
His opinion was South Sudan was disobedient to God and failing to put him first. He said politicians take oath of the office with the Bible but when in the office they contradict its values and promote nepotism and corruption. He identified the lack of rule of law as another major
46 problem in the country. He said rule of law must be second to God. Culprits had to accountable for their wrong doings.
SGT Emmanuel Akol Yel (SPLA)
He said problems emanate from Juba. The political decisions in Juba spread to the people causing their suffering.
R/SM William Deng (Police)
He asked if the ND was the beginning of the change of political governance in South Sudan. He accused Hon. Kun Puoch for promoting rebels during his time in office. According to him the destruction of South Sudan came as a result of adopting American system of governance rather than adopting the system of former colonizers of South Sudan (Sudan), the British. Another problem was the mixing of politics and military work. He inquired whether victims of war will be compensated.
Brig. Gen. Chuang Dengcham (NPSSS)
He queried if politicians who were now out of the country were aware of what is going on?
According to him the problem will not be solved unless Riak, Pagan, Lam, Majak and many other opposing politicians were brought to the table.
Brig. Gen. Kongor Reech (SPLA)
He claimed there were two states operating in Central Upper Nile; one led by Hon. James Tor
Monybuny and another by UNMISS. Gen. Kongor stressed the lack of rule of law was the biggest problem the country was facing.
Maj. Gen. Gatkuoth Kuc (Police Commissioner)
47
He wondered whether Riak and his colleagues in the bush had accepted the National Dialogue process. He said constructive politics was encouraged but divisive politics was destructive.
2.7.4 Emerging issues: Armed and organized forces meeting (Malakal Town, Southern Sector) 1. Division within the SPLM party causing national strife;
2. Lack of nationalism on the part of politicians and lack of well-trained military
officers fueling tribal agendas;
3. Division of states on tribal lines and appointment of state governors from the same
communities hindering peace process;
4. Promoting the rebels to top political and military positions upon returning from the
bush should end;
5. Lack of laws governing the conduct of politicians in the country giving them
impunity to commit crimes;
6. Conflict over land by the local communities due to lack of clear internal borders;
7. Soldiers supporting the political agenda of politicians because they are not aware of
the duties and responsibilities (mixed politics with the work of soldiers);
8. The church leaders preaching hatred in their religious gatherings and promoted by
the media outlets;
9. Rebels fighting the government should be part of the dialogue;
10. Removal of guns in the hands of civilians;
11. Politics through the barrel of the gun a major cause of conflict in South Sudan.
2.7.5 Recommendations: Armed and organized forces meeting (Malakal Town, Southern Sector) The following were the recommendations put forward by the leaders of all armed units in
Central Upper Nile State for the peaceful resolution of the conflict in the country. 48
1. Ending factionalism within the SPLM party to end the crisis in the country;
2. Developing a national agenda to promote the interest of the country first;
3. Ending tribal policies that hinder coexistence of communities such as ensuring
governors of states are not appointed in their home areas but deployed to other
states;
4. Enacting laws regulating the conduct of politics in the country to hold the
politicians accountable;
5. Make the ND inclusive by reaching out to forces fighting against the government to
contribute their views;
6. Appointing a committee to restore the 1956 boundaries to end border disputes;
7. Set up military colleges that offer professional military training to empower soldiers
to know their responsibility;
8. Formulate and implement a disarmament process;
9. End the integration of rebels into the army.
2. 8 CENTRAL UPPER NILE STATE, OGOT COUNTY November 16 2018
2.8.1 Consultative meeting with Chollo community
2.8.2 Introduction Commissioner of Ogot County of Central Upper Nile, Hon. Gumba Mayik welcomed the ND.
In his opening speech he called on the locals to send a message to their relatives in POCs and refugee camps to return home as the area was now peaceful. He said the current conflict began in
49
1991 but was optimistic a solution would be found through the ND. He urged the people to embrace the spirit of nationalism and denounce tribalism.
The representative of the Governor of Central Upper Nile State and state Minister of Agriculture,
Hon. Daniel Odok Deng encouraged the community of Chollo to be open on why they are fighting.
Chairperson of the National Dialogue Sub-committee for Upper Nile Region, Hon. Simon Kun urged the community to own the ND process. Peace will come through reflecting what brought about the conflict and how to solve the problems. He encouraged people to express their views without fear.
Member of the sub-committee, Hon. Tabitha Guang, said people should not hold back their views. She warned the elders not to encourage the youth to fight as there was nothing good about the war. She urged the community of Chollo to respect each other and the soldiers that were helping to maintain peace. The Deputy chairperson of the sub-committee, Dr. Nyok Abiel, urged participants to freely contribute their views.
Hon. Lydia John Jok implored the people of Ogot County to maintain the little peace they were enjoying. He said fact that the ND had made it to the area was testimony there was some peace.
If people used to co-exist, speak each other’s languages and intermarry before it was possible to do it again.
2.8.3 Open session: Chollo community meeting (Ogot County) Oyath Othoch (Chief of Pathow)
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He said his community had been displaced by the conflict while others had fled to the bush to fight. Conflict had affected agricultural activity and it was no long safe to participate in activities such as fishing and hunting.
Ongu Nyideng (Chief)
He urged the community to live in harmony and peace.
Manya Ajak Kur (Chief of Wau Chollo)
He was pleased with the ND team’s presence. He said it was traumatic to witness the killing of family members. He said war had taken them by surprise because the South Sudanese used to be united. This was the case when the nation joined forces to liberate the country from Arab invasion. He asked: What made us to turn against each other so quickly? He said many were starving. The government needed to provide food assistance to avert hunger in the area.
Chan Yanya (Chief of Ogot)
He said people lived in constant fear of attacks. He said it was not a good thing for South
Sudanese people to live in fear of one another.
Nyadhong Nyawela (Woman)
She said unequal distribution of resources was divisive and a source of conflicts. She left everything behind when war erupted in the area. She returned home on hearing soldiers were protecting the area, but they arrested her. She accused politicians including Hon. Kun Pouch for causing conflict in the area. She said if the politicians committed themselves to end the war, the process of peace would speed up.
Nyakamsin Adwok (Woman)
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She accused the soldiers, particularly those from Dinka origin, for sexually abusing women. She alleged the soldiers often pounced on the women at night. It was impossible to have peace amid such atrocities.
Nyalem Aban (Woman)
She also accused SPLM/A soldiers for lacking discipline and respect for women by committing rape. She said this was unheard of before. She remarked that living under such conditions was not life.
Martha Adhieng
She is from Bhar El Ghazal but married to a Chollo man. She said it pleased her to see people from different tribes sitting together. She said peace was possible to achieve.
Mary Nyathine Tong Yiklual (Woman)
Although she was from Mewut state, she had been staying in the Chollo community for years.
She did not see tribe because “there is no Nuer, Dinka or Shilluk.”.
Mary Deng Yor (Woman)
She stated that women and children were suffering because of the war. Women were the backbone of the country as they had also participated in the fight against Arabs. She said regardless of tribe, whenever women lose their husbands to the war, they experienced pain. “If
Nuer dies, it is we who suffer the loss and the same to a Shilluk.” Women were desperate for peace.
Martin Othow Ador (Youth)
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He said at times the army took tribal sides and killed people. The soldiers also occupied the people’s land and cut down their trees.
Emmanuel Stephen (Youth)
Politicians had a big role in ending the problems in the country. They needed their own dialogue to iron out their problems. There was need to solve the problems caused by division of states and land disputes as ordinary citizens were not consulted in decision making. As a citizen, he said he felt left out and marginalized whenever land belonging to his people was given to outsiders. He recommended the formation of a land committee to solve issues relating to land including returning stolen land to rightful owners.
Tabu Athom (Youth)
He said peace could not be attained when others were still fighting in the bush. He said the
Olony were in the bush because they lost their land to the Dinka.
Lt. Col. Tito Deng (Deputy Commander of the Area)
He commended soldiers in the area, saying they had no problems with the ordinary citizens but were only concerned with those fighting against the government. The soldiers were living together with the soldiers of Olony who quit fighting. He said politicians caused problems for soldiers who sometimes turned against each other and fought among themselves. The soldiers were worried about delays in securing their salaries.
Col. Wilson Moni Natane (Commander of the Area)
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He urged forces fighting the government to return home and contribute to peace. He said the ND team must include views of those in the bush. Government must help to secure food for the starving people of Wau Chollo.
2.8.4 Emerging Issues: Chollo community meeting (Ogot County) 1. Food insecurity due to conflicts;
2. Land grabs are an issue between Chollo and Dinka in Eastern part of River Nile
especially Malakal. Lack of justice in the division of states is a concern;
3. Forces fighting against the government to derail the process of National Dialogue;
4. The issue of politicians inciting the citizens a thorny matter in the area;
5. Soldiers threatening civilians by arbitrary arrests and lootings is worrying.
2.8.5 Recommendations: Chollo community meeting (Ogot County) 1. Restoration of 1956 internal boundaries that serve justice to all communities and
formation of internal boundary committees to address the arising border disputes
between states, counties and all administrative units;
2. Bring the fighting forces on board to ensure success of National Dialogue;
3. Reconsidering the division of states to serve justice to the people whose land was
mistakenly annexed to other tribes;
4. Food aid to starving communities of Ogot;
5. Government forces to protect, respect and coexist peacefully with host
communities. Politicians to stop inciting innocent civilians.
2.9 NORTHERN UPPER NILE STATE (NUNS) November 20 2017
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2.9.1 Consultative meeting with government officials and chiefs
2.9.2 Introduction The meeting opened with Christian and Islam prayers. The Secretary General for Government of
Northern Upper Nile State, Mr. James Basha, welcomed participants to the meeting which he said was meant to seek solutions to the national crises. State Deputy Governor, Hon. Acting
Governor Majiid said peace was instrumental to economic development and growth of the country.
Chairman for ND Sub-committee for Upper Nile Region, Hon. Simon Kun Puoch emphasized the ND team was there to listen and document views of different groups on how to address the
South Sudan crisis. He said the ND Grass-root Consultation was the first step, followed by regional and national conferences.
Deputy chairperson of the sub-committee, Dr. Nyok Abiel pointed out that the people of
Northern Upper Nile had already started a peace process among the residence. He said ND was searching for peace to attain development, unity, and harmony in the country.
National Dialogue member, Hon. Tabitha Guang (ND Member) urged people to take the dialogues seriously and not view it as a waste of resources. Careful consideration was given in setting up the ND to bring lasting solutions to peace.
2.9.3 Open session: Renk government officials meeting (Nuns) Hon. Lual Bioch (Minister for Information)
He thanked President Kiir for initiating the ND process but pointed out the process was meaningless if South Sudanese do not reconcile and forgive each other.
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Hon. Fadwa Chuei Deng (MP)
She stressed the need to give time to the people to attend and participate in the dialogue.
Hon. Jok Angok Jok (Mayor)
He said South Sudanese were divided because others wanted the country to fail and reunite with
Sudan. He said this was not an option even for God.
Hon. Ayiik Akuei (Minister of Local Government)
When politicians fail to topple government, they turned to killing innocent civilians. He said some politicians should be made answerable in the court of law. He demanded an apology from politicians who had hurt the people of South Sudan.
Hon. Said Tera Morji (Adviser for Peace)
He said people of Greater Upper Nile should have an opportunity to talk among themselves. He said the area of Greater Upper Nile Region enjoyed peace and were able to grow crops.
Chief Deng Ajak Ajang
He suggested that ample time be given to the people to discuss their grievances with the ND team. He said the opposition should also participate in the dialogue.
Issam {surname} (MP)
She preferred peace to be attained before the ND dialogue. She said the rebels should have been leading the ND and apologize to people. He said not enough research had been done about the
ND process. More study was needed before going ahead with the process.
Tong Guot Ngor (Chief)
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South Sudanese should embrace religious activities to promote peace.
Mala Ibrahim (Director General for Social Welfare)
Peace was a priority for the people of Renk, but she believed the process should had been for the two rival groups. The rebels needed to be convinced take part in the process.
Akamjo Tuong Akamjo (Chief)
He blamed government leaders for dragging the people into their power struggles and killing innocent people.
Akuoc Jalhak Akuoc
He believed the most affected by war were the people of Northern Upper Nile State who had no clue why they were being killed by the rebels.
2.9.4 Emerging Issues: Government officials and chiefs (Nuns) 1. Limitation of time for ND means some people would not be able to participate in
the process;
2. The need to bring the rebels to the dialogue table was highlighted;
3. Use of forceful means to gain power by politicians worrying.
2.9.5 Recommendations: Government officials and chiefs meeting (Nuns) 1. The ND to give enough time for the consultations;
2. The ND sub-committee to find ways of bringing the rebels on board and make it
truly inclusive process;
3. Citizens to strive for peace to promote economic growth;
4. Leaders to be vigilant and use peaceful means to gain power;
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5. Faith based organizations have an active role to bring peace;
6. Politicians must apologize for atrocities they have committed;
7. The ND Sub-committee to review the national dialogue process;
8. Need for South Sudanese to forgive each other and reconcile.
2.10 FASHODA STATE, MANYO COUNTY November 21 2017
2.10.1 Consultative meeting with Chollo community and state leadership
2.10.2 Introduction The consultative meeting opened with a reading of words taken from both the Holy Bible and
Quran. The Governor of Fashoda State, Hon. Altieb Ajong Okec said he was pleased his area was part of the ND dialogue which gave the people an opportunity for reconciliation and forgiveness. He urged Fashoda citizens to be open to contributions of the dialogue. The
Governor further pointed out he and his colleagues joined the SPLM/A (IO) to fight for the land of Chollo which had been taken by the Dinka of Atar and Ngok.
The ND’s sub-committee chairperson for Upper Nile Region, Simon Kun Pouch encouraged the people to maintain peace in the region and support the dialogue. He wanted to hear their views on why the country had suffered such great destruction, why people continued to fight and how that can be ended. Kun explained that the 2015 peace agreement had succeeded in addressing political rifts through allocating positions of authority to politicians. The agreement was not owned by ordinary citizens and had overlooked their problems. The ND was the people’s process which they should use to craft their own solutions.
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The Deputy Chairperson for Upper Nile Sub-committee, Dr. Joseph Nyok Abiel said the ND dialogue was an opportunity to talk about bringing back their king who was is key to achieving peace in the area. A sub-committee member, Hon. Tabitha Guang said parents had responsibility to discourage their sons to stop fighting. Lydia John, a member of National
Legislature, said the people should think on how to bring peace back to the area.
2.10.3 Open session: Chollo community (Fashoda State, Manyo County) Obur Akol Yor (Chief)
He demanded a return of the land of Chollo stolen by Dinka Atar and Ngok. He said getting back their land was more important than political positions.
Najir Abar Nyawel (chief)
He blamed the leadership of Kun Pouch at the time for taking the land of Chollo. He said getting their land back was what would bring peace in the area.
Adwok Anyang Dak (Chief of Lul)
He said land disputes should be treated as an urgent matter. The Dengjol claimed land along the border with Chollo on the River Nile belonged to them. He said the Dengjol were utilizing grazing land but now they claimed it as their own.
Peter Tipo Tor (Chief)
He was of the opinion the ND process would take rebels out of the bush just like what happened during the 2015 peace agreement. He explained that some people had resorted to the bush because there were no avenues to express their feelings which was what the ND was providing.
He called for a solution to land borders to end disputes. He also suggested a return to the 1956 borders. 59
Ongay (Chief)
He noted that the land of Shilluk had been taken as if they did not participate in the liberation struggle of South Sudan. He accused government of taking sides by supporting Dinka when they take land.
Atakul Koko
He also demanded an urgent return of the land belonging to the Chollo community if peace was to return. He said it was a message that needed to be conveyed to the President.
Emmanuel Obany Deng (Youth Representative)
He was critical about the on-going war which was killing the youth and had divided the citizens of South Sudan. South Sudanese had become refugees in their own countries. Obany wondered whether the division of states was the cause of tribal clashes. He said returning to 1956 borders served as social justice to every South Sudanese.
Santino Chan Yor (Youth representative)
He also called on the President to implement his Decree regarding the 1956 borders, saying that was the only guarantee to get back land for the Chollo community. He warned that without return of land, there would be no end to war.
Mathew Paulino Aban
He suggested that since we are living in the world of technological advancement, archeologists should conduct tests and investigations of who were the original people who lived in the area.
Nyamojok Odhiel (Women representative)
She wanted the war to end as it was killing their sons. She demanded for land return. 60
Aban Laa Padiet (Acting King)
He cited politicians who incited violence and the stolen land as problems that required urgent resolve.
Philip Akol Amon (MP)
He said there was a constitutional and governance crisis and recommended fixed Presidential limits and promulgation of laws that empower ordinary citizens. He called for a parliamentary system of governance that placed power in the hands of legislature. He called for trust between the warring parties. He also raised the land dispute issue and suggested a land committee to investigate 1956 borders. He was happy with 32 states, saying they had succeeded in bringing power to the people.
Othor Akoch Deng (Information Minister)
He cited inter-communal fights and nationwide conflict over governance as issues of concern. He added his voice to those who called for the restoration of land ownership to the people of Chollo.
He proposed a rotational Presidential system among the three regions of Greater Equatoria,
Upper Nile and Bhar El Ghazal in order to avoid problems of leadership.
Hassen Gabriel Ayik (Commissioner of Manyo County)
He said the people of Chollo needed peace as they were living as refugees in and outside the country.
Abdallah Kur (Advisor)
He pointed out that defections and rebellions were major problems. The people had only one request which was to have their stolen land back. He informed the meeting about the work to
61 bring back the Chollo people from refugee camps and appealed for assistance in that regard. He advised the traditional authorities especially Jieng Council of Elders (JCE) to refrain from interfering in the national politics.
2.10.4 Emerging Issues: Chollo community (Fashoda State, Manyo County) 1. Land dispute between Dinka in Central Upper Nile and Chollo community;
2. Poor governance (not upholding the constitution).
2.10.5 Recommendations: Chollo community meeting (Fashoda State, Manyo County) 1. Formation of border committee to address the internal border issues between
communities;
2. Restoration of 1956 borders as social justice;
3. Work on a permanent constitution should be speeded up.
2.11 NORTHERN UPPER NILE STATE – RENK CITY COUNCIL PREMISES November 23 2017
2.11.1 Consultative meeting with youth, women, elders and chiefs
2.11.2 Introduction The meeting began with prayers from both the Christians and Islam in the state of Northern
Upper Nile.
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Hon. James Basha (Secretary General) reminded the youth, women, elderly and those who were present during the meeting that the ND was investigating how there could be lasting peace for the nation. Their views mattered.
Hon. Acting Governor Majiid (Deputy Governor) described the ND process as important and required citizens to express their grievances without fear.
Hon. Simon Kun Puoch (Chairman of ND Sub-committee) stressed the importance of getting views of youth, women and elderly in finding solutions to the problems of South Sudan.
2.11.3 Open session: Youth, women, elders and chiefs meeting (Renk) Ali Mohamed Abujebel (Information)
He was curious to know why there was no representation of the people of Renk from the ND team. He said power hungry politicians were the cause of conflicts and appealed to the ND to address the issue.
Aguol Ayel Adie (Paramount Chief – Former Upper Nile State)
He expected the dialogue to be between the rivaling parties. He was concerned that rebel groups were being left out of the process. He believed the national dialogue should have been held earlier when the 2005 CPA was signed or immediately after the 2010 general elections. Issues such unity, peaceful coexistence, strengthening of the rule of law and the writing of the constitution would have long been resolved. Committees to probe compensations to the South
Sudanese after Sudan Civil War of the SPLA and nation building for reconciliation and forgiveness would also have been formed. He appealed to the ND to engage chiefs of Greater
Upper Nile in all five states because there were pivotal to peace.
Dhieu Ajak (Chief)
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He viewed the ND as apolitical and critical for breaking down mistrust among South Sudanese.
Kur Amiang Kur (Chief)
He applauded the ND for what he said was a good start. He wondered why the people of Renk were always attacked when they had never sought any leadership aspirations. The people were only willing to give power to anyone through a vote.
Kur Ding Ayuel (Youth)
He commended the creation of 32 states saying they formed part of the solution to the problems of South Sudan. He said since people wanted peace, they were ready for a dialogue.
James Basha (SG)
He called for dialogue of political parties if lasting solutions were to be found.
Abdu Ali Nur (Communist Party)
He said there should be ceasefire first nationally for the ND process to proceed smoothly. He called for people to own their mistakes as well as a reformed professional army.
Awer Deng Lual Ajang (Youth)
He believed the ruling party (SPLM) internal problems were causing chaos for the country. The political rewarding of rebels with top positions should be discouraged. The army and other organized forces should operate within the rule of law and receive professional training.
Zara Chol Adel (Woman – MP)
He said women desperately needed peace. She would like to see the punishment of those who participate in coups.
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Angok Koch (Former Commissioner)
He expressed his reluctance to dialogue with rebels until they backdown.
Nyok Angok Nyok (Chief)
He also was not ready to engage the rebels until they answer why they kill the people of Renk.
He said if it was power, they were after, why were they not in Juba to claim it from President
Kiir.
Chief Ahmed Gilo Othow
He had no problems with his people whom he described as peace loving.
Karim Monychol Padiet (D/Chairman of Youth)
He described the current power sharing in the nation as nepotism and bribing. He said the people of South Sudan should promote education so that youth can meaningfully participate in nation building process.
Kak Deng Bol (Youth)
He called for patriotism and to work towards retaining professionals such as doctors, teachers, soldiers to embrace nationalism.
Dong Lual Akol (Chieftaincy Member)
He entertained the participants with a song tribute to President Kiir for solving the problems of
South Sudan by creating 32 states.
2.11.4 Emerging Issues: Youth, women, elders and chiefs meeting (Renk) 1. Lack of rebel members in the national dialogue;
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2. Lack of trust among South Sudanese;
3. Lack of professionalism in the army;
4. Lack of service delivery to citizens and salary delays for civil servants;
5. Discourage acts that promote rebellion;
6. Lack of law and order.
2.11.5 Recommendations: Youth, women, elders and chiefs meeting (Renk) 1. The president must discourage rebellion and not reward it;
2. Rebel groups must be included in the national dialogue process;
3. South Sudanese to rebuild the trust they have lost so that there is acceptance for one
another;
4. Government to reform the army to professional standards;
5. Promotion of equitable distribution of national resources;
6. Respect for the rule of law;
7. Elections should be the only means to political power.
2.12 NORTHERN UPPER NILE STATE, MELUT COUNTY November 25 2017
2.12.1 Consultative meeting with the government and traditional authorities
2.12.2 Introduction Hon. Thomas Jok Deng (Commissioner of Melut) welcomed participants to the dialogues.
Hon. Sukar (Political Adviser of NUNS/SPLM State SG) introduced the ND Sub-committee team and stressed its importance to nation building. Hon. Simon Kun Puoch (ND Sub-
66 committee) explained that the dialogue wanted to address the suffering of the civil population of
South Sudan by examining how the current conflict in the nation can be resolved to bring national unity and harmony.
2.12.3 Open session: Government and traditional authorities (Melut County) Kur Deng Bol (Chief)
He said the Melut Community was peace loving and accommodated different tribes across South
Sudan.
Guil Tot (Chief)
He expressed readiness among the people to dialogue because they were aware that peace brings good things.
Deng Akol Kuol (Chief)
He demanded an end to wars and conflicts which people of South Sudan bring on themselves.
Dau Mai Deng (Director General)
He viewed the ND as a platform for truth telling. He said consultations with all tribes was of importance if peace was to be achieved.
Rev. Monywiir Padiet Monywiir (Administration)
He recommended the set-up of recreational facilities such as sport clubs as they brought people together and promote coexistence and peace.
Youhana Ayuel (Youth Leader)
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He commended the ND as important for peace. He said greedy politicians must not be given positions of power. He suggested a joint dialogue among the five states of the former Upper Nile
State to build consensus on issues of concern in the region.
Yor Deng Yor (Former Youth Leader)
He advised youth not to fall for lies from politicians as they would die for nothing. He said the interests of politicians were put first before the people which was worrying. He blamed President
Kiir for not enforcing the law on politicians who commit atrocities.
Deng Chol Padiet (Chief)
He wanted to see inclusiveness of the IO groups in the ND Sub-committees if it is serious in finding peace.
2.12.4 Emerging Issues: Government and traditional authorities (Melut County) 1. Joint dialogue of all states in the Upper Nile;
2. Lack of enforcing rule of law;
3. Greed politicians;
2.12.5 Recommendations: Government and traditional authorities (Melut County) 1. Government must discourage rebellion by enforcing the rule of law on politicians
who are found wrong doing;
2. Joint conference of the chiefs of five states of former Greater Upper Nile;
3. Politicians should refrain from violence but promote peaceful transfer of power in
the country;
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4. Inclusion of rebels in both the national dialogue sub-committees and round table
talks;
5. President Kiir should apply the rule of law on those dragging the country back to wars
and confusion.
2.12 NORTHERN UPPER NILE STATE, EASTERN MABAN COUNTY-BUNJ November 26 2017
2,13.1 Consultative meeting with women, youth and traditional authorities
2.13.2 Introduction
The commissioner of Jamam, Andrea welcomed the team of National Dialogue on behalf of the people of Maban. Commissioner of Eastern Maban County, Monsur Mustafa considered the meeting as very important, saying people in Maban had already started working on peace in the area. The commissioner called on South Sudanese to pray for the spirit of nationalism to move the country ahead.
The chairperson of Peace commission in the Northern Upper Nile State said the national dialogue was created to address the problems facing the country. The National Dialogue was there to consult with different stakeholders on the root causes of the conflict and how to address them. He encouraged people to talk responsibly and without fear. The state security Advisor welcomed all the stakeholders (Youth, women and traditional authorities) and encouraged them to talk freely.
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The Head of Sub-committee, Kun Pouch thanked God for providing the opportunity. He also extended the appreciation to the President for initiating the National Dialogue process. South
Sudan had a lot of problems and had witnessed so much bloodshed since 2013. In 2015 an agreement was signed between the warring parties (politicians) in which they divided political seats. The President realized that the needs of ordinary citizens were not reflected, that is why he initiated the National Dialogue.
He was looking forward to the people to answer questions: How can we solve the problem of
South Sudan? How can we unite as people of South Sudan? What kind of constitution do we need for South Sudan? How can we end the raging war in the country? Kun said was the role of the ordinary citizens to talk about the root causes and how to solve those problems.
He explained that the resolutions and recommendations of the local/grass roots consultations would be discussed at a regional conference. The country needed peace which was fought for during liberation. He said the people did not liberate themselves to kill each other.
Yacob Ahmed Judi, the chairperson of youth in Eastern Maban County also thanked the
President for the National Dialogue because what happened in 2013 had caused the people to fear each other. Tribalism had permeated into the hearts of citizens. National Dialogue was important because it generated solutions to the problems of South Sudan. He urged the process to be free from politics in order to succeed.
One of the biggest problems, was the representation in the government. The government should reflect the 64 tribes of South Sudan; it must not be a one tribe government. In his view such a representation will end the violence. Secondly, there was the issue of internal borders that was a threat to peace and should be addressed urgently.
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2.13.3 Open session: Women, youth and traditional authorities
(Eastern Maban County-Bunj
Rebecca Budi (Women Representative)
She stated that politicians invented problems for ordinary citizens. People in the areas felt marginalized because they had not land and were not represented in government.
Wichar Jiba (Chief)
He shared the previous sentiments that people of Maban felt greatly marginalized and completely forgotten, saying they had no state of their own or seat in the national government. He said there was lack of justice to what was happening in the country.
Nyadong Lage (woman)
She voiced concern over the suffering of women caused by people they gave birth to and nursed.
She said the killing of innocent women should end. She urged people to emulate old ways of living which accommodated other tribes.
Juma Akor Ali (Youth)
He said the coming of the National Dialogue in the area was good as the people had already accepted the President’s call to support the dialogue. He wanted justice on the border dispute at
(Kilo 10) between Maban and Melut. The Maban people wanted their own state.
Stephen Kali Pana (Chief)
He said the people of Maban were desperate for peace. He appealed to government to redraw boundaries and end land disputes. He repeated calls to let Maban have its own state and high-
71 level representation in government. “We are tired of being deputies in the government,” he further complained.
William Kalany Thomas (Youth)
He asked if resolutions of the dialogue would get the attention of the Presidency. He also agreed with views that the people of Maban are marginalized by both the national and state government.
He said the historic division of states by the President while a welcome development, was not complete without according Maban and Koma their own states.
Amona Ngwole (woman)
She appealed to the ND to convey to the President the people of Maban’s desire to have their own state if durable peace was to be achieved.
Juma Lado Gore
He said the biggest mistake was to forget liberation struggle heroes which was why the country was in a dilemma. He also raised concern on how the ND would reach out to South Sudanese in refugee camps. He called for power to be only given to capable leaders.
James Loch (Chief)
He called for the removal of the governor of Northern Upper Nile State because he alleged, he was not interested in peace.
Yoasi (Chief) also expressed concern that the Governor of Northern Upper Nile State was inciting violence. He also called for the creation of the Maban state.
Doman Deng (Chief)
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He wanted government to solve the border issue between Maban and Dinka. He said the land dispute was Kilo Asira (Ten). He also accused Governor of Northern Upper Nile State for inciting the violence and called for his removal.
Peter Palat (Youth)
He recommended that there be representation of the 64 tribes in the national government. He also said the President should step down to give peace a chance. He demanded an end to land grabs, removal of the Governor or creation of a state.
Bolis Adam (Youth)
He recommended a stop to hate speech, land grabbing and for politicians to embrace peace and unity if peace was to be attained.
2.13.4 Emerging Issues: Women, youth and traditional authorities (Eastern Maban County-Bunj
1. Maban’s marginalization and desire of own state;
2. Land disputes between Maban and Melut need attention;
3. Current Governor of Northern Upper Nile State inciting violence.
2.13.5 Recommendations: Women, youth and traditional authorities (Eastern Maban County-Bunj 1. Create Maban State;
2. Speed up demarcation of internal boundaries between Maban and Dinka Dongjol;
3. Remove current sitting Governor of Northern Upper Nile State for peace to prevail.
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