Bor County peace agreement backs Abii Payam
Three communities in Bor County have reached an agreement to unite under the newly accepted Abii Payam administrative structure. Local authorities and traditional leaders present the decision as a step that could improve peace, governance, and service delivery in the area.
County commissioner hails dialogue-driven breakthrough
Bor County Commissioner Samuel Ateny Pech welcomed the joint decision by the Mach Ayiel, Biong, and Nyara communities. He described it as a breakthrough achieved through sustained dialogue and mutual understanding, and said it is the first time their leadership has formally agreed to operate under a single administrative entity.
Speaking to the media this week, Samuel Ateny Pech characterised the deal as a historic milestone for Bor County, arguing it demonstrates that long-running communal and administrative disputes can be addressed through peaceful engagement.
“The unity demonstrated by the chiefs and their communities shows that dialogue and mutual understanding can overcome differences that have persisted for years,” Samuel Ateny Pech said. “This is a positive step toward strengthening administration, improving security, and fostering grassroots development.”
Traditional chiefs pledge consultation over confrontation
The meeting brought together senior traditional leaders, including Chief Lual Tiar Gai of Mach Ayiel, Chief Manyang Deng Keny of the Biong community, and Chief Makuach Arem Nyok of Nyara. The chiefs jointly affirmed their commitment to peaceful coexistence.
In their shared message, the traditional leaders pledged to handle future disagreements through consultation rather than confrontation, presenting the approach as central to keeping local stability intact as Abii Payam takes shape.
Jonglei State urged to formalise Abii Payam recognition
In a collective appeal, the chiefs called on the Jonglei State government to formally inaugurate Abii Payam by raising its flag. They said official recognition would consolidate peace, support security arrangements, and improve access to public services across the area.
Samuel Ateny Pech said the county government is ready to support community-led peace initiatives and urged residents to embrace dialogue as a foundation for lasting stability in Bor County and Jonglei State more broadly. He added that Abii Payam could serve as a model elsewhere in the state.
Roots of the Abii dispute: administration, borders, authority
Leaders traced the Abii dispute to long-standing administrative and communal disagreements among Mach Ayiel, Biong, and Nyara. Over the years, tensions persisted around leadership structures, territorial boundaries, and recognition of local administrative authority.
According to local accounts, the absence of a formally recognised payam contributed to mistrust and occasional localised conflicts. Community members had also raised concerns about representation, competition for limited resources, and fears of marginalisation within the county administrative system.
The latest agreement is being presented as a new chapter grounded in cooperation, shared governance, and a collective vision for peace and development in Bor County.