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Showing posts from September, 2025

THE KAPOETA GOLD CONTROVERSY: Gov. Lobong in the Spotlight Again.

Illegaly Sponsored Miners A system that bypasses the voice of the people normally encounters tough resistance ahead of its journey. By: Abunerry, Ayella September 27, 2025 Torit.  In the recent past, I have been calling on the youth to know that Eastern Equatoria under Gov. Lobong will never move forward due to his malicious abuse of offices and looting of resources. There are numerous reasons to defend such claims. On 25 September, Kapoeta woke to an unusual war that led to a heavy loss of lives and injuries, as submitted by the state authority. Many groups claimed responsibility for the attack. Among those groups is the Patriotic Toposa Youth (PTY). Whichever group claimed the attack, I credit the Patriotic Toposa Youth at the moment, whether true or not. We should not ignore the suffering of EES (particularly the Toposas) in a daylight scheme given the rich gold mine project currently underway. In one of my articles dated 20.9.2025, I asked, “Where are the proceeds from the ...

THE EES GOLD MINES THAT BENEFIT A CRIMINAL CABAL.

September 20, 2025. Abunerry, Ayella Magwi Town Eastern Equatoria boasts riches that surpass many other South Sudan states, ranging from gold mining to fish production. The Kapoeta area is the hotspot of gold; the Nimule and Kinyeti areas have alluvial gold deposits. Unfortunately, over the past 20 years, EES has rarely seen adequate services despite all these riches. The Kapoeta gold mine produces 60 tonnes of gold annually, valued at approximately $7.13 billion. Yet, the government of Lobong, the only one that has ruled the state for over 15 years, has done less than the people would expect. The people will probably credit him for completing the construction of the county headquarters, his predecessor's project. However, there is no reason to remember Gov. Lobong because of a lack of transparency and accountability. The state cartel controls the lives of its citizens. You would seldom find good health facilities in the state unless funded by international organisations. Many hosp...

A CALL FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF MAGWI COUNTY COMMISSIONER

The Governor, EES 18th September 2025   A CALL FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF MAGWI COUNTY COMMISSIONER   Your Excellency,   Everyone is born a leader, but as each one grows, we choose to follow our instincts: to lead or to be led. When an individual disobeys his instincts and forces his way to lead, he develops into a dictator. This is exactly the leadership of the Magwi County commissioner. The commissioner, who was appointed due to his greed for power after manipulating his party members, has run amok. Many people continue to suffer silently under him, despite communiqués being presented for his removal.   Your Excellency, this open letter is a voice of amplification to your office, the state appointing authority, that we, the people of Magwi County, have had enough and cannot tolerate being led by someone who is feared by the citizens on the following grounds.   Tax manipulation. While it is every citizen’s duty to pay taxes, it is also every leader’s re...

WHAT I HAVE LEARNED

I HAVE LEARNED … I’ve learned- that you cannot make someone love you. All you can do is be someone who can be loved. The rest is up to them. I’ve learned- that no matter how much I try to care, some people just don’t care back. I’ve learned- that it takes years to build up trust and only seconds to destroy it. I’ve learned- that no matter how good a friend is, they’re going to hurt you every once in a while, but you can forgive them for that. I’ve learned- that it’s not what you have in your life but who you have in your life that defines you. I’ve learned- that you should never ruin an apology with an excuse. Just apologise. I’ve learned- that you can get by on charm for about fifteen minutes. After that, you’d better know nothing. I’ve learned- that you shouldn’t compare yourself to the best others can do. Be yourself I’ve learned- that you can do something in an instant that will give you heartache for life. I’ve learned- that it’s taking me a long time to become the person I want t...

A MISSING TARGET: Peace Dialogue with Nimule Gangs

Mayor's Press Unit.  Nimule's social issues do not fit the typical definition of gang-related activity. Instead, we are dealing with juvenile crimes committed by adolescents transitioning from childhood to adulthood. These minors need guidance and support to get back on track.   In 2023, I attended a peace dialogue workshop at St Francis Conference Hall with this group, aimed at empowering them. Unfortunately, the organisers (most of the organisations came from Torit under the leadership of the director general in the state ministry of youth and culture) failed to follow through on their promises. I was one of the used and discarded participants. Many young people gave up their habits, hoping to start small businesses or receive scholarships, but those promises were empty.   The group continues to regroup, struggling to survive economically. With the mayor planning another peace dialogue, I am sceptical about the outcome. Without immediate action, the town may face fu...

THE LANDS BEYOND DESPAIR.

In South Sudan's land of woe, Where riches abound, yet power's low, We cry out in despair, OH GOD HELP SOUTH SUDAN, WE'RE COMPLETELY POWERLESS   BEYOND REPAIR. From East to West, our land's divine. With curved valleys, tall mountains, and green rainforests that shine, The birds enjoy the quietness and breezes of the vegetation's sway. But beneath, our bones shake, our stomachs cry, and our minds are astray. Our flesh trembles, blood struggles through veins so fine; We’re dying, they say, due to powerlessness that's truly mine. Exploitation is unending; wolves and foxes take their share. Leaving us weakened, with no control, in endless care. Family crumbles, children die, floods take their toll, The world watches, laughs, and calls us cursed; their hearts grow cold. Teachers are underpaid; education is in disarray. Defence is powerless, completely powerless, with no way. OH, GOD, HELP SOUTH SUDAN; we are in dire need. Our future's uncertain; our present...

I owe no Apology.

CLARIFICATION NO. 1 On 31st August 2025, Facebook asked me, “WHAT IS ON YOUR MIND?” I posted this: "Mmmmm, even heaven knows that AIC is the best corrupt church in the world. Happy Sunday to Muslims.” This post attracted backlash from some members of AIC-SS and AIC-U. Some members called me directly, while others responded openly. Those who called felt clarified. Those who did not are still offended. I owe no one an apology to any member of AIC-SS or AIC-U for misinterpreting my text. Why don’t I apologise? I do not owe an apology because AIC is different from AIC-SS and AIC-U. As a member of AIC-SS, which is fully written as Africa Inland Church - South Sudan, I have never known of any church in South Sudan abbreviated as AIC except when discussing it contextually. The AIC I posted about on that date is fully written as AFRICA INDEPENDENCE CHURCHES or AFRICA INITIATED CHURCHES (you can verify it by googling). “AIC, defined by AI—African Independent Churches (AICs) or African-Init...

THE TIMELESS JOURNEY.

Keeping the Children Busy. The game between Man U and Chelsea started; Anyanzo updated me through his Facebook post. My wife switched on the power system and turned on the BeIN Sport Deck. All the boys and their neighbours settled in the recreational room; the screen had been delayed by 10 minutes with one goal in favour of Chelsea. As the only fan in the house, I was jubilating and ululating at the top of my voice as if bewitched by a Royal Gin. My wife, a Man U fan, was sent into hiding behind her elder son, Enoch, who was smiling in silence; he is an Arsenal fan. The game went on; the first half ended still in favour of Chelsea. I informed the boys and the girls that after the game, we will have a private sitting after the others have gone. Goaaaaal! Another one from Willian; this time, all Arsenal and Liverpool fans in the house were behind me, and my wife left the house and went straight to the kitchen to make dinner. At the 75th minute, the power went off, and lo, the neighbo...

FLAWS IN GEN. KEITH KITUNGI'S BORDERS CLAIM. A Critical Observation

Gen. Keith of the UPDF captured Challenging.  OBSERVATION ON KEITH'S HORRIFIC CHALLENGES AT SSPDF. Part 1.  A recent video I received captured Gen. Keith harassing the South Sudanese national army in the presence of the Border Committee tasked with a fact-finding assessment of the border issue. He lamented the naivety of the national army and the illegal occupation of the no man's land and challenged the power of the commissioners. While he might be correct to some extent, Gen. Kitungi failed to acknowledge the true definition of the issues at hand.  No Man's Land. In the 5-minute video, Gen. Keith described the area in question as a no-man's land. By definition, No Man's Land refers to a territory or area that is not controlled or governed by any single entity, country, or authority. This type of land rarely exists in Africa. Examples of no man's lands in Africa include the Sahara Desert, the Kalahari Desert, the Namib Desert, and Bir Tawil between Egypt an...

THE HYPOCRISY OF SOUTH SUDAN LEADERS: A Nation Held Hostage by Spiritual Powers.

Who among the top state and national leaders does not seek protection from spiritual leaders and magicians ? By:  Hon. Juol Nhomngek Daniel,   Former MP on SPLMIO Ticket 6th Sept. 2025 The majority of our leaders in South Sudan are hypocrites. They are in denial while constantly finger-pointing at other people for doing the same things. For instance, some youth and leaders in the government always point at the Nuer people, saying that they are followers of Ngundeng and their current spiritual leaders. They have reached the extent of mocking Nuer people when they talk about Ngundeng, while in fact, they believe more in spiritual leaders and magicians than Nuer people do. They are constantly in contact with the spiritual world through their spiritual leaders and magicians. They suspect and blame each other for their misfortunes while running after the spiritual world and protection. To make matters worse, they view education as a secondary need since academic qualifications no...

BOUNDARIES AND BENEFITS: Why Clear Borders Matter for South Sudan

Why Clear Borders MATTER for South Sudan Article, date: 5th, Sept. 2025 Introduction. South Sudan is currently engaged in a border conflict, especially with Uganda. The two countries are trading accusations of encroachments into each other’s territory, putting lives at stake. This opinionated article is a wake-up call that there is an urgent need to find a lasting solution to the border conflict. It is notably important to understand the demarcation and the type of boundaries, which I will share based on my research. UPDF lectures the Illiterate SSPDF Boundary types defined Natural Boundary. This type of boundary is demarcated or formed by natural or physical features such as rivers, mountains, or deserts. This is common with African countries.  Artificial. Artificial boundaries are defined by treaties or agreements based on latitude or longitude, often referencing colonial maps, as in the case of South Sudan and Uganda.  Geometric: The borderline between Egypt and Sudan is a ...

A NEW ERA FOR NIMULE: Appreciation for the Mayor's Efforts.

HW: Hon. Fuli Caesar.   Nimule Bylaw... a great development.  4th Sept. 2025 In March, the state government designated Nimule Town Council as a municipal council. This move sparked mixed reactions among the community; some supported it while others opposed it. As a long-time resident of Nimule, I understand the complexities of this decision. Building on this development, I'd like to share my perspective on the town's progress. With over twenty years of living in Nimule, I've witnessed many issues that have hindered the town's progress. Previous leaders implemented policies that failed to drive real improvement. They collected taxes, but tangible benefits and developments within the town remained in the grave. I've contributed to the town's development through voluntary clean-ups with some youth groups (ICYA, YPCC) and advocacy efforts, calling for bylaws to protect local businesses and residents from exploitation.   However, with your leadership, Your Worshi...

FAMILY-CENTRIC GOVERNMENT: A Recipe for Disaster

Opinion by Abunerry, Ayella John Bosco Writer, Critic, and Teacher Opinion on the Appointment of Counsel Sarah Peter Nyot, the Wife of Bol the Vice President, the In-Law of President Kiir Nepotism? The appointment of Molana Sarah Peter Nyot has understandably raised eyebrows among South Sudanese citizens. While some may view her appointment as a testament to her qualifications and capabilities, others see it as part of a larger issue – the growing trend of President Kiir appointing family members and in-laws to key positions. This trend is concerning for several reasons. Firstly, it undermines the principles of meritocracy and equal opportunity, where appointments should be based on qualifications and competence rather than familial ties.   Where is democracy? In a democratic government, it is essential to have a system that promotes fairness, transparency, and accountability. The appointment of family members and in-laws to influential positions can create conflicts of int...