Governor Lobong urges central gov’t to prioritise peace before elections

TORIT – The Governor of South Sudan’s Eastern Equatoria State, Luis Lobong Lojore, is urging the national government to prioritize peace efforts to enable ordinary citizens to utilize their skills and knowledge effectively in the country.

Speaking at the SPLM party secretariat in Torit yesterday, Lobong emphasized the potential of Equatoria youth and citizens across South Sudan to contribute to the workforce and job market if peace prevails.

He underscored the need to combat corruption in workplaces and encouraged youth to leverage their qualifications for employment opportunities.

“We, the people of Equatoria, require peace for us to utilize our manpower and skills effectively. With peace and equitable opportunities, employment can be accessible to us due to our qualifications and skills,” Lobong said.

“We aspire for a South Sudan where there is equality in employment opportunities across all tribal communities, solely based on qualifications and skills,” he asserted.

Governor Lobong urged SPLM party members and the wider population of Eastern Equatoria State and South Sudan to engage in agriculture as a means to combat hunger.

He highlighted the importance of practicing pastoralism, poultry farming, and other forms of informal work such as water vending to enhance livelihoods.

“Hard work is essential. Whether it’s cultivating your own garden, raising poultry, or engaging in other forms of employment such as cleaning, vending water, or business activities, diligence is key. We must all strive to work diligently to earn our sustenance,” Governor Lobong emphasized.

The statement was made at the SPLM state secretariat following the party’s endorsement of President Kiir as the SPLM flag bearer and presidential candidate for the upcoming South Sudan general elections scheduled for December 2024.