Members of the Anyuak community in Jonglei State’s Akobo County have elected a new executive committee to serve a four-year term.
John Opiew Olok, a former state lawmaker, was re-elected chairman of the Akobo Anyuak Community Association (AAACA), having previously led the group from 2017 to 2022.
Other elected officials include Rev. Adam Nur as deputy chairperson, Oma Moses Ajak Ojoc as finance secretary and Opiew Gilo as information secretary.
Jay Adingora Alual, head of the electoral committee, told Radio Tamazuj the election was free and fair, with candidates accepting the results.
“Over the past weeks, the Akobo community has been preparing for the elections. On Sunday, we conducted free, fair and credible elections, with Hon. John Opiew Olok elected with 30 of the 51 votes, while his opponent, Adam Nur, received seven votes,” Jay said.
Olok thanked community members for re-electing him and pledged to work with them to address their grievances.
“I am not new to this office and I am happy for my re-election. I will serve and deliver on what they need,” he said. “I will also work for peace within my community and beyond. Our state of Jonglei is plagued by violence, so we will push for dialogue for broader peace.”
Nur, who now serves as deputy chairperson, had initially contested the chairperson’s position but lost to Olok. He was appointed deputy chairperson in accordance with the association’s constitution, which provides for the runner-up to assume the position.
Nur conceded defeat and pledged to cooperate with the new executive committee in serving the Anyuak community.
Omot Okony Olok, an elder and undersecretary in the National Ministry of General Education, urged the new leadership to work inclusively.
“The task ahead is a difficult one. Work with everyone without factionalism to deliver on the mandates you have been entrusted with,” he said.
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