![Map of Northern Bahr el Ghazal in red [Photo via Wikipedia]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/NBGS.png?resize=850%2C601&ssl=1)
County Commissioner Garang Peter Maduok stated in an interview with Sudans Post on Friday that authorities rounded up 50 young men during Wednesday’s market day in Nyamlel, the county headquarters.
He justified the action by claiming that dreadlocks and long hair are “uncultured” and associated with Western influences and potential criminal behavior.
“The new development seen in young boys keeping dreadlock and plait them is uncalled for and as a matter-of-fact people should avoid swaying away from the way they were created by God,” Maduok declared.
He further expressed disapproval of boys wearing nose rings and “stylishly” torn clothing, announcing a ban on such attire as well.
The move has drawn criticism from some young men, who see it as an overreach of authority and an infringement on their right to personal expression and cultural choice.
One young man, speaking on condition of anonymity, questioned the reasoning behind the forced hair removal.
“I don’t know why these people are using their power as those in high positions to intimidate people,” he stated.
“Our culture is not eroded, it is part of civilization, and anyone has a choice to dress or adopt any culture he wants so long as it is not destructive to one’s way of life,” he added.
The controversy comes on the heels of a similar ban on night movement imposed last week in Aweil South County, citing concerns about youth activities at night.
These incidents raise questions about the balance between upholding cultural values and respecting individual freedoms in South Sudan.
