The newly appointed governor of Western Equatoria State, Barrister James Al-Taib, has called on armed youth in the state to put down their guns and embrace peace.
Speaking for the first time on Saturday in Juba after his appointment, he appealed to all sons and daughters of Western Equatoria State who have taken up arms against their brothers and sisters to return home and contribute to peace and stability.
“With a clean heart and open hands, I am ready to listen to the grievances of those in the bush and work together to find lasting solutions,” Governor Al-Taib said. “Whatever made you angry and pushed you to take up arms, I am prepared to hear it and address it. My request is simple: put aside the gun, come with empty hands, and we will find a way forward so that our people can enjoy peace, security, and harmony.”
The governor reminded the armed groups that human beings were created by God to live in peace, not war.
“God calls us to be peacemakers so that we may inherit His Kingdom. None of us wants to go to hell. Therefore, I plead with you, my brothers and sisters, and put aside your guns,” he stated. “Together with my deputy, we are seeking peace, harmony, and security in Western Equatoria.”
Governor Al-Taib further encouraged the people of Western Equatoria and South Sudan as a whole not to lose hope, describing it as one of God’s greatest gifts.
“In times of difficulties, God tells us to remain hopeful because challenges will pass. My message to you, my people, is that peace will prevail in Western Equatoria during my leadership,” he concluded.