The commissioner of Jonglei State’s Bor County, Samuel Ateny Pech, has called on Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) sheltering in Awerial County in Lakes State to return home, citing improved security conditions following operations by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF)in northern Jonglei.
Ateny appealed on Tuesday during a solidarity visit to displaced families in Mangkaman, Awerial County, where thousands of people have sought refuge after fleeing violence and insecurity in parts of Jonglei State. He said security has been restored.
“I want to assure you that the insecurity that forced you to flee has been brought under control by the SSPDF under the leadership of President Salva Kiir,” he stated. “Currently, most areas are under the control of the SSPDF.”
The commissioner encouraged displaced residents to plan for a safe and voluntary return, adding that local authorities are working closely with the national government and humanitarian partners to create favorable conditions for resettlement.
Ateny also met with displaced families, community leaders, and humanitarian organizations to assess urgent needs. Many IDPs reported shortages of food, shelter, and medical services, saying they fled their homes out of fear of attacks.
“You are our people, and your safety and dignity come first,” Ateny reassured. “We will continue engaging relevant authorities and humanitarian partners to ensure assistance reaches those in need and that conditions are created for your safe return.”
He also praised the residents and leadership of Awerial County for hosting the displaced population despite limited resources, describing it as a strong show of solidarity among South Sudanese communities.
Awerial County Commissioner Phillip Mawut welcomed the visit, saying it boosted morale among the displaced and helped highlight their urgent humanitarian needs.
“I take full responsibility for your safety and security while you are here,” he told the IDPs. “Providing food is beyond my capacity, but we are appealing to humanitarian organizations to support you until the time comes for your return to your state.”
Both commissioners appealed to aid agencies to scale up support, particularly in food assistance, healthcare, and protection services, warning that host communities are increasingly overstretched as displacement continues.
The visit comes amid heightened tensions in northern Jonglei, where recurring clashes between the SSPDF and the SPLA-IO and its allied Nuer militia, the White Army, have displaced thousands of civilians. Authorities say ongoing stabilization efforts are aimed at restoring calm and enabling displaced families to return home safely.