State Policy Drives Administrative Reform
The flag-raising in Rumbek Central County formalised Abyei-Ajok as a payam, under a decree signed by Governor Gen. Rin Tueny Mabor. Cabinet Affairs Minister Mathiang Deng Monydit told residents the move follows “the legal policy empowering the governor to create new payams,” reinforcing state authority.
Community Voices on New Opportunities
Local leaders welcomed immediate appointment of an administrator to streamline service delivery. Paramount Chief Malok Malual Malok praised the decision as “service to the people,” while MP Dr. Paul Akol Paul warned spelling errors like “Abin-Jok” could erode cultural heritage for future generations.
Speakers urged equitable land allocation. Minister Mabor Meen Wol cautioned that disputes must focus on plots, not forceful displacement. He also discouraged cultural practices such as lower-tooth removal, signalling a shift toward progressive local governance.
Security Chiefs Highlight Peace Dividend
Police Commissioner Maj. Gen. Chol Atem Jongeth linked the administrative upgrade to improved security, asserting that maintained peace will “foster lasting unity among chiefs and civilians.” He appealed to parents to safeguard children, whom he called “the seeds of the nation.”
He also encouraged Abyei-Ajok and neighbouring Cuei-Adukan residents to cooperate with police patrols, suggesting grassroots vigilance will consolidate the province’s fragile gains after years of communal conflict.
Education and Youth Development Outlook
State Education Minister Nelson Makoi Makur linked the new payam to improved school oversight, congratulating President Salva Kiir on appointing Governor Mabor, “whose joy is establishing payams.” Caretaker Information Minister William Koji Kirjok assured that distance and population justified the upgrade after public consultation.
Mayor Akhol Manyang Magom called for careful coordination between municipal and payam administrations, noting variations in law, order and headquarters locations. SPLM county chair Adongthiar Padhil Maker announced upcoming selections for party secretaries to cement political representation at the grassroots.
Historical Significance and Next Steps
Elder speakers recalled that Abyei-Ajok once hosted the late Dr. John Garang during the liberation struggle, framing today’s ceremony as a continuum of self-determination. Residents hope the payam status will translate historical symbolism into concrete roads, clinics and markets.
For now, community chants of unity echoed across Monytiik plains, signalling cautious optimism. Governor Mabor’s administrative roadmap, backed by state ministers and chiefs, positions Abyei-Ajok as a test case for decentralised development in Lakes State.