Gola Reappointed to Tackle Pibor Violence

(JUBA) – President Salva Kiir Mayardit has appointed Gola Boyoi Gola as Chief Administrator of the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA), with a direct order to focus on restoring peace and security in a region long affected by violent inter communal clashes and widespread misuse of firearms.

Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony held on Friday, President Kiir urged the new Chief Administrator to make security a top priority.

“Your leadership must bring peace to Greater Pibor,” Kiir said. “This area has suffered too long from violence and instability. The people deserve calm, development and reconciliation.”

Gola Boyoi, who previously held the same position, expressed his readiness to respond to the President’s call.

“My focus will be peace and development,” he said. “This region has great potential, but we must first address the insecurity that has disrupted lives and delayed progress.”

The Greater Pibor region, home to several communities including the Murle, has experienced frequent cycles of violence linked to cattle raiding, revenge attacks and child abduction. Armed youth groups have played a central role in these clashes, which have also strained relationships with neighbouring communities.

Community elders and local leaders attending the swearing-in ceremony welcomed Gola’s appointment, expressing hope that his leadership would foster reconciliation.

“We believe Gola understands the challenges on the ground,” one Murle elder said. “We hope he will bring people together and promote peace with our neighbours.”

The government’s decision to reappoint Gola comes following growing pressure to implement sustainable solutions in the region.

Humanitarian groups and civil society actors have repeatedly called on authorities to strengthen disarmament efforts, expand dialogue initiatives and improve development services to reduce the appeal of conflict among the youth.

As part of his new term, Gola is expected to prioritise community dialogue forums, youth peace mobilisation, and strengthened cooperation with neighbouring states, including Jonglei, to de-escalate tensions and prevent further violence.

No specific funding commitments were made during the ceremony.