Jonglei Governor's visit to northern counties eases tension -- official.

By Philip Thon Aleu July 11, 2008 (BOR TOWN) -- Governor Kuol Manyang's four days visit to northern Counties of Jonglei has reduced tension and suspicion there, an official has said. The governor, who was on peace mission, sensitized Twice East, Duk and Ayod Counties (in North of Bor Town) on government's total disarmament policy, agricultural strategies and accomplished return of cattle to owners following May's raiding - were dozens of people were killed. The governor's team also argued local people to stop suspecting leaders' involvement in tribal conflict and respect for each other. Tension remained high since May, 2008's cattle wrangles between Duk Padiet and Nuer Lou but community leaders pledged normalization of ties and welcomed the disarmament policy provided security will be adequate, minutes of rallies conducted in the four days visit (July 1 - 4) revealed according to governor's secretary Jacob Kuany Ayom. On the other hand, the village chiefs argued the government to open up roads linking the northern counties to Jonglei capital Bor town for proficient movement of people principally in time sicknesses. Wernyol chief in Twice East County, Awan Ajang confronted the government by donating 25 heifers as a sign of commitment. Insecurity however, instigates Twice East County with reports of gangs launching night assaults to rob people of cattle and threats lives. Efforts made to identify the gangsters remain futile but victims of these atrocities accuse across tribal group that speak both Dinka and Nuer dialects. In Duk County, the local chiefs disclosed that disarmament is under way and some guns already collected. Ayod chiefs too welcomed the disarmament and asked the government for maximum security. However, the local chiefs have been accused of exaggerating the figures of cattle stolen since May. Nuer Lou puts at 24,000 cattle while Duk says at least 17,000 cattle have been stolen according to June report. Whatever the figures may be, an independent committee comprised of lawyer, policy representative, and others has formed to investigate any loses and facilitate return of cattle to right owners. The governor on his part assured the citizens of peace and maximum security. No more people will die from cattle raiding and unjustified conflicts, Gen. Kuol Manyang promised. As far roads, any initiative by local people will be fully supported by the government (ST)

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