Torit mayor and caretaker commissioner Eddy William Ponsiano has warned communities in Haforiere village in Torit County’s Hiyala Payam against harboring criminals and engaging in acts of violence, saying insecurity is worsening hunger and preventing humanitarian support from reaching vulnerable populations.
He issued the warning on Saturday during a visit to Haforiere, where he met residents affected by a prolonged dry spell that has destroyed crops and increased hardship among families.
“Your suffering is known to me. I have taken pictures of these gardens. The community is truly suffering from a catastrophe caused by the dry spell,” he said. “The farms have been burnt because of the prolonged heat from the sun.”
The commissioner said insecurity has become one of the biggest obstacles preventing development partners and humanitarian organizations from delivering assistance to affected communities.
“When we ask partners to bring food here, they will tell us no because they fear insecurity. Even vehicles they want to hire to come here will refuse because they do not want to die,” he said.
He appealed to communities, particularly women and youth, to support efforts to restore peace, saying women have suffered greatly from ongoing violence.
“You women gave birth to us and made us who we are today. You have carried responsibility and managed family affairs. But instead of being happy, we men are now causing you suffering,” he said. “Many of you are mourning your children and family members. Until when will this continue? Let us pray to God that this must end.”
“Our Governor has said that our people must end bloodshed so that they can live in peace. People must move freely, roads must be safe, and that is why I have told the youth through the radio that they must clear the roads,” Ponsiano added.
The commissioner issued a strong warning against criminal activities, saying communities that protect criminals will face consequences if government security forces are forced to intervene.
“It is going to be tough for criminals. Any village that commits crime or hides criminals will carry responsibility for the losses of government soldiers,” he warned. “If forces come here with ten vehicles and demand fuel that may cost SSP 20 million, who will pay? You may be forced to sell your cows to pay. You will also be asked to arrest criminals and feed them. Is that good for you?”
“I am not coming here as your enemy. I am coming as your son and your brother. I want peace and development for this community,” he added.
Speaking during the gathering, a woman from Haforiere, Ichaa Aliardo, welcomed the leaders and expressed appreciation for their visit, saying the community values their guidance and support.
“I want to thank our commissioner very much. Your coming here is appreciated. We are surviving because of your advice,” she said. “Feel free at home; we will always cooperate with you. May God always be with us.”
Meanwhile, Kanuto Ekebek, a member of the Eastern Equatoria State Legislative Assembly and SPLM Chairperson for Veterans Affairs, lauded the community for the warm reception the leaders received.
“We thank you for your heroic welcome. You have made us feel strong and at home. We want you to live in peace; that is why we came here. I know there is famine here, but God is great,” he said.
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