The move, announced through a gubernatorial decree on state-owned radio on Thursday, increases the number of Payams in Rumbek Central County from five to seven.
Local leaders and residents welcomed the decision, describing it as a step toward peace, inclusivity, and development.
Sultan Lueth Marial Buoc, Executive Chief of the Monytiek section, praised the governor for recognizing the administrative needs of the communities.
“My appreciation goes to Governor Rin Tueny for promoting Abien-ajok and Cuei-adukan to Payams. The people living in Abien-ajok belong to different communities, not only Monytiek. With this new status, nobody will be segregated, and we shall live peacefully as one community,” he said.
He added that the expansion of Payams under Rumbek Central County marks progress. “Our past issues have now stopped. What is left for us is to focus on development,” Sultan Lueth stated.
Similarly, Sultan Sebit Kuac Manyiel, Paramount Chief of Rumbek Central County representing Cuei-adukan Payam, said the promotion would bring much-needed services closer to the people.
“There will be a survey and allotment of plots for those who want to build in Cuei-adukan Payam,” he explained. “Previously, we depended on Amongpiny Payam for services, but now hospitals, schools, police stations, and administrative offices will be established here.”
Youth representatives also expressed support. Madit Mawet Aramweer, a community youth leader in Cuei-adukan, said the decree has been well received.
“The community and intellectuals appreciate Governor Rin Tueny’s decision. Even though we are proud of our former Payam, Amongpiny, we will continue to embrace peace and unity as one community of Rumbek Central County,” he said.
Mabor Paul Kodi, another community leader, emphasized the need for the two Payams.
“Promoting Cuei-adukan and Abien-ajok is one of the best decisions for human resource development. We thank the governor and his cabinet for recognizing our status,” he said. “Abien-ajok has enough land to accommodate everyone from different communities, including Nyang, Monytiek, Panyon, Amothnhom, Athoi, and even some from the Jur Bel community.”
The promotion of the two Payams is expected to strengthen local administration and improve service delivery in Rumbek Central County.
