South Sudan Civil Society Urges Probe Into Twic-Ngok Land Dispute

The National Civil Society Coalition has called on the governments of Warrap State and the Abyei Administrative Area to investigate the root causes of a renewed land dispute between the Twic Mayardit and Ngok communities. Coalition Chairperson Bol Deng Bol made the call yesterday as the civil society alliance released a statement expressing concern over rising tensions between the two communities. He said discussions over the ownership of Aneet, an area located along the Kiir River, have resurfaced in recent days. “We are concerned that the renewed discussion over land ownership could create tensions between the Twic and Ngok communities if it is not addressed in time,” Deng said. “The governments of Warrap and Abyei need to investigate the genesis of this dispute and address the underlying issues before they develop into confrontation.” The coalition warned that continued tensions could undermine relations between the two communities, which have experienced disputes over land and territorial claims in the past. Deng also called on the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), and other peace partners to support efforts to revive community dialogue. “We appeal to UNMISS, UNISFA and other peace partners to reconvene dialogue between the Twic Mayardit and Ngok communities and help them find an amicable way forward,” he said. The coalition said dialogue remains critical to preventing further escalation and creating space for the two communities to address their differences peacefully. It urged all parties to refrain from actions or statements that could heighten tensions while efforts to resolve the dispute are underway.