Historic Handovers Mark Fresh Start
Thursday’s handover of one hundred civilian firearms in Mankien signalled a new chapter for Unity State’s security project. Governor Justice Riek Bim Top, flanked by chiefs and legislators, applauded the symbolic transfer, framing it as evidence that home-grown solutions can outpace coercive crackdowns.
Community Leaders Drive Voluntary Disarmament
Information Minister Engineer Gatwich Bipal Both told reporters that chiefs from all eleven payams collected the weapons after last month’s peace conference endorsed dialogue-led disarmament. Traditional authorities, he noted, are translating resolutions into action, persuading youth that turning in rifles today safeguards their herds and families tomorrow.
Logistics Challenges in Rainy Terrain
Officials acknowledge the rains have flooded tracks linking remote cattle camps to Mankien, slowing collections. Boats are scarce, and soaked ammunition must be handled carefully. Yet Governor Riek urged teams to press on, insisting the tally must surpass one hundred to break recurring cycles of revenge raids.
Government’s Next Targets
Unity State cabinet members are drafting incentives for communities that maintain zero weapons, including priority boreholes and feeder roads. Security advisors add that once the low-hanging firearms are gathered, registration of authorised guns will follow, tightening state oversight without alienating pastoral youth who still fear rival counties.
Grassroots Voices on Peace Prospects
Paramount Chief Justice Puok Tuil explained that chiefs embraced voluntary surrender to prevent forceful sweeps. “We chose the pen over the gun,” he said, stressing community ownership of peace. Young cattle keeper Gatluak Kuol agreed, arguing disarmament will cut bride-wealth raids and reopen trading routes to neighboring Warrap.