South Sudan Uror clashes: what the governor said
Jonglei State Governor Dr. Riek Gai Kok has condemned alleged looting and destruction attributed to SPLA-IO forces in Uror County. Speaking in Duk County to citizens displaced by recent fighting, he argued that violence cannot deliver legitimate political authority (Eye Radio).
IDPs in Duk County hear security and return timeline
After what he described as a security assessment, Dr. Riek Gai told displaced families that order is being restored and that returns to Uror should begin soon. He said, “Our youth have arrived in Padiet and Pajut; the instability will come to an end soon.” (Eye Radio)
Peace process pressure: national message vs local reality
In his remarks, the governor framed the destruction as a contradiction to the wider national discussion about peace. He added that President Salva Kiir was “deep shock[ed]” by the outbreak of violence, particularly at a time when political actors publicly emphasise stability (Eye Radio).
Hospitals and markets targeted in Uror, governor says
Dr. Riek Gai described damage to key community assets, including a hospital and markets, and questioned the political rationale behind it. “Does a leader achieve power by destroying his own community?” he asked, referring to claims that Dr. Riek Machar “must lead” (Eye Radio).
Political messaging to SPLA-IO and reassurance to residents
The governor’s address combined reassurance for people sheltering around Padiet and Pajut with a direct challenge to SPLA-IO’s narrative. He insisted that leadership cannot be built on devastation, and said the incidents are viewed as undermining the ongoing peace process (Eye Radio).