Lakes State Governor Rin Tueny Mabor has issued a decree upgrading Cuei-Adukan and Abien-Ajok Bomas to Payams, expanding Rumbek Central County’s administrative units from five to seven.
The order, announced last Thursday, was welcomed by local leaders who said the move would improve governance and development in the state.
Sultan Lueth Marial Buoc, the paramount chief of Monytiek section in Rumbek Central County, praised the decision, saying it would foster unity.
“The people living in Abien-Ajok are from diverse communities, not just Monytiek,” Buoc told Radio Tamazuj. “Now that it is a Payam, no one will be segregated, and we will live peacefully as one community.”
Sebit Kuac, the paramount chief representing Cuei-Adukan Payam, said the upgrade would bring essential services closer to residents.
“There will be land surveys and plot allocations for those who want to build homes,” Kuac said. “Previously, services like hospitals, schools, and police stations were accessed through Amongpiny Payam. Now, they will come directly to Cuei-Adukan.”
Youth representative Madit Mawet said the community welcomed the change.
“The people and intellectuals appreciate Governor Rin Tueny’s decision,” Mawet said. “Despite the split from Amongpiny Payam, we remain united and committed to peace.”
Mabor Paul Kordit, a community leader in Abien-Ajok, said the new Payams would improve local governance.
“The governor’s decree recognizes our needs and promotes development,” Kordit said. “Abien-Ajok has enough land to accommodate all communities—Nyang, Monytiek, Panyon, Amothnhom, Athoi, and even some Jur Bel.”