A group of dismissed traditional leaders in Bor County, Jonglei State, are threatening legal action after being removed for opposing the creation of new administrative units, a move critics say prioritizes political expansion over essential services.
The state government, which began establishing around 20 new Payams and Bomas in July, argues the move brings governance closer to communities. But the decision has sparked backlash, including the abrupt dismissal of three chiefs in Bor County who rejected their inclusion in a newly formed Chuei-Keer Payam.
In an August 12 letter, chiefs Mariar Maluil, Aguto Chol, and Angeth Noon objected to the restructuring, citing a lack of consultation. Days later, Bor County Commissioner James Gai Makoor removed them from their posts—a move one chief vows to challenge in court.
“We will demand reinstatement from the local government minister, and if that fails, we will go to court,” Aguto Chol told Radio Tamazuj on Sunday. “Our removal was illegal. It disrespects our community and the law.”
Civil society groups have condemned the dismissals, calling them an attack on free expression.
Bol Deng Bol, executive director of INTREPID South Sudan, accused the state government of punishing dissent instead of addressing poor service delivery.
“Is questioning leaders now a crime?” Bol said. “The chiefs were removed for peacefully expressing their views—what is their offense?”
“Chiefs are the foundation of local governance,” Bol said. “They should be supported, not removed unlawfully.”
He urged state officials to focus on healthcare, roads, and security rather than contentious boundary changes that risk inflaming tensions.
Jonglei state authorities did not immediately respond.