Governor Adil Urges Holdout Groups to Stop Confrontation and Embrace Peace

(MOROBO COUNTY)— Central Equatoria State Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony has urged armed holdout groups operating in Morobo County to abandon violence and embrace dialogue.

 Speaking during a public rally in Morobo on Friday, he said lasting peace is essential for restoring security, reopening roads and allowing communities to return to farming and other economic activities.

Adil called on armed groups to join the peace process and stop attacks on civilians, particularly along roads linking the county to neighbouring areas.

“Peace is the only solution” to Morobo’s challenges, the governor said, urging those involved in attacks and other acts of violence to lay down their arms and work toward a peaceful settlement.

He said disputes involving borders and other political or administrative issues should be handled by the government through dialogue rather than armed confrontation.

Morobo County, which borders Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, has faced recurring insecurity involving government forces, the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) and the National Salvation Front (NAS), an opposition armed movement led by Gen. Thomas Cirillo.

The conflict has disrupted movement and displaced civilians.

Recently, the County faced recurring rounds of ambushes and abductions of civilians and humanitarian officers, with the latest being in June 2026, when at least 34 civilians were reportedly abducted in the county by suspected SPLA-IO forces, with some later escaping. SPLA-IO did not publicly claim responsibility for the incident.

Community leaders told the governor during the rally that insecurity remains one of the biggest obstacles to development and the safe return of residents.

Community leaders, led by Peter Wani, appealed for the state intervention to address security concerns, assist returnees and rebuild local institutions.

He called for community dialogues and reconciliation forums to help heal divisions and restore trust among communities.

Mr Wani further requested government assistance for development projects and land demarcation, particularly for government premises.

Farming remains a major source of livelihoods in the county, but insecurity and restricted movement have made it difficult for many residents to cultivate their land consistently.

A paramount Chief appealed for agricultural tools, training for chiefs and sub-chiefs, civic education ahead of elections, equal opportunities for traditional leaders and improved health services.

National and state lawmakers representing Morobo who accompany the governor also called for cooperation between political leaders and the state government.

Meanwhile, the County Commissioner, Joseph Mawa appealed for continued efforts to restore peace through dialogue and peaceful coexistence. He also requested logistical support for organized forces to improve their ability to respond to insecurity.