JUBA — The Makal County Community Committee in Juba has told controversial Deputy Governor of Upper Nile State, Deng Joh, to shun political rhetoric which divides communities following alleged border disputes between Makal and Akoka counties.
In a statement shared with Sudans Post on Wednesday, the committee’s chairperson, James Okony Dau, described the Deputy Governor’s claims as misleading and urged him to refrain from making divisive comments.
“We would like to affirm that contrary to the Deputy Governor’s remarks, Makal County does not have disputes and does not share a direct border with Akoka County,” the statement read. “We urge the Deputy Governor Hon. Deng Joh to adopt a more constructive approach, emphasising unity, community cooperation, and peaceful resolution of disputes.”
The committee stressed that leadership in times of political and administrative tensions should be rooted in calls for unity, respect for the law, and collaborative governance. It warned that inflammatory remarks risk undermining peace and stability in the region.
“We call upon the Deputy Governor to promote solidarity and constructive dialogue rather than division,” the statement added. “Our shared future depends on working together for the prosperity of all counties in Upper Nile State.”
Dau further encouraged state officials to focus on development and inclusive governance, urging “all parties to reject violence and discrimination” and instead work toward “a better future for Upper Nile State.”
The statement also referenced an ongoing local administrative dispute involving the Commissioner of Makal County and the Municipality of Malakal City over the relocation of the mayor’s office. The committee emphasised that the matter is a domestic concern and should be handled at the state level.
“We stress that this issue is a local matter best resolved through the authority and guidance of Upper Nile State leadership,” Dau said.
The Deputy Governor has not yet issued a public response to the statement.
This is not the first time tensions have emerged over jurisdictional or administrative boundaries in Upper Nile State. Observers say unresolved historical grievances, coupled with the lack of clear demarcations, have occasionally led to confusion or political misinterpretations.
Community leaders now hope the matter will be de-escalated through dialogue under the leadership of the Upper Nile State government.
