Earlier this week, SPLM-IO’s official spokesperson and Chairperson of the National Committee for Information and Communication, Pal Mai Deng, announced that the Akobo community would not permit Governor Riek Gai to visit the area.
“The Movement hereby informs the County Commissioner of Akobo and all security organs under SPLA-IO Sector Three not to allow this visit to take place,” Pal said in a statement.
He argued that, under the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), the position of the Jonglei State Governor was allocated to the South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA).
“In view of this, the Movement considers Dr. Riek Gai Kok an illegitimate governor who cannot come to SPLM/A-IO–controlled areas in the capacity of Governor of Jonglei State,” he added.
However, Manath Gany, the Press Secretary in the Office of the Governor, dismissed SPLM-IO’s objection, saying preparations for the visit were already underway.
“I’m not sure these allegations are true because the governor is preparing to travel to Akobo. Those on the ground have already met with the community and elders, and we will be traveling today (Thursday),” Gany stated.
He reaffirmed that Dr. Riek Gai’s visit forms part of ongoing peace and reconciliation efforts across Jonglei State, aimed at fostering unity and cooperation among communities.
Dr. Riek Gai Kok was appointed Governor of Jonglei State earlier this year, replacing Denay Jock Chagor, who was nominated by SSOA under the power-sharing arrangement. His appointment has sparked controversy, with SPLM-IO and some opposition figures accusing President Salva Kiir’s government of violating the R-ARCSS by reallocating the position to a different political group.
Gai’s planned visit to Akobo aims to promote reconciliation, assess local development priorities, and engage traditional leaders in peacebuilding initiatives.
