National Civil Society Coalition: Calls for Twic Ngok Land Dispute Investigation

• The National Civil Society Coalition has called for an investigation into a renewed land dispute between the Twic Mayardit and Ngok communities.
• The dispute centers on the ownership of Aneet, an area along the Kiir River, and has led to rising tensions.
• Governments of Warrap State and the Abyei Administrative Area are urged to probe the root causes of the conflict.
• The coalition also appealed to UNMISS, UNISFA, and other peace partners to support efforts to revive community dialogue.
• Timely intervention and peaceful dialogue are deemed critical to prevent escalation and find an amicable resolution.

The National Civil Society Coalition has issued a pressing call for the governments of Warrap State and the Abyei Administrative Area to launch an immediate investigation into the underlying causes of a recently resurfaced land dispute between the Twic Mayardit and Ngok communities.

The National Civil Society Coalition has issued a pressing call for the governments of Warrap State and the Abyei Administrative Area to launch an immediate investigation into the underlying causes of a recently resurfaced land dispute between the Twic Mayardit and Ngok communities. This urgent appeal, made yesterday by Coalition Chairperson Bol Deng Bol, follows the release of a statement expressing significant concern over escalating tensions.

The renewed focus of the dispute centers on the ownership of Aneet, a strategically important area situated along the Kiir River. The coalition highlighted that discussions surrounding Aneet land ownership dispute have re-emerged in recent days, prompting fears that if left unaddressed, these talks could rapidly intensify existing friction between the Twic and Ngok communities. The civil society alliance emphasized the critical need for authorities to delve into the genesis of this Twic Ngok land dispute investigation and resolve the foundational issues before they culminate in direct confrontation.

The coalition underscored that timely intervention is crucial to prevent these renewed discussions over land ownership from escalating into direct confrontation between the communities. They warned that continued tensions risk undermining the already fragile relations between the Twic Mayardit and Ngok, who have a history of disputes concerning land and territorial claims in the region. The call for a comprehensive South Sudan land rights probe aims to preempt further instability.

Chairperson Bol Deng Bol specifically urged the governments of Warrap State and the Abyei Administrative Area to proactively investigate and address the root causes of the Warrap Abyei land conflict. The coalition's statement reflects a deep concern that without a thorough examination and resolution of these underlying issues, the current tensions could easily spiral into a more serious conflict, jeopardizing regional peace and security.

Beyond governmental investigation, the National Civil Society Coalition call extended to international bodies, urging the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), and other peace partners to lend their support. The objective is to facilitate efforts aimed at reviving community dialogue between the Twic Mayardit and Ngok populations. This UNMISS UNISFA dialogue support is seen as essential for fostering an amicable way forward.

The coalition stressed that constructive dialogue remains a critical tool for preventing any further escalation of the dispute and for creating a conducive environment where the two communities can peacefully address their differences. They also implored all parties involved to exercise restraint, refraining from any actions or public statements that could exacerbate tensions while efforts to resolve the long-standing land claims are actively underway.

Lawyers advising clients with interests in Warrap State or Abyei Administrative Area should monitor the progress of this urged investigation into the Twic-Ngok land dispute, as its findings could impact land tenure, investment stability, and community relations in the Aneet area. Compliance officers should assess potential risks related to social unrest or operational disruptions in the region.

Source: Original reporting via regional reports