Kuol Manyang criticized as Twic East youth decry exclusion from county visit

BOR – A youth leader from Twic East County has sharply criticised Senior Presidential Advisor Kuol Manyang for allegedly sidelining the leadership of the Twic East Youth Association (TEYA) during his recent visit to the area, saying the move risks weakening youth participation in peacebuilding and local security efforts.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Kongor Youth Association leadership in Juba over the weekend, Deng Kuir Bul, a Twic East youth leader based in the capital, described the omission as disrespectful and counterproductive, arguing that organised youth groups play a crucial role in stabilising communities affected by conflict.

“I have always been asking the leadership of Kuol Manyang and others to work together with us so that we move as one, but it has not been possible. Recently, they went to Twic East County without informing or involving the Twic East youth leadership,” Kuir said.

He maintained that the county’s youth have consistently supported the government under President Salva Kiir Mayardit, and questioned why they were excluded from such an important engagement.

“They visit Twic East without us, yet when they go to the front lines, do they not find citizens of Twic East there? Even now, the people of Twic East are on the front lines, and we will always stand with the leadership of President Kiir,” he added.

Kuir further emphasised that the ongoing conflict should not be viewed along ethnic or community lines. “The fighting in South Sudan has not been divided so that each community fights on its own. This is a national issue,” he said.

During the visit, the senior advisor reportedly urged young people to enlist in the national army to help protect civilians and property. However, Kuir argued that such mobilisation efforts would be ineffective without engaging TEYA, which he described as the recognised umbrella body for youth across the county.

While the visit sought to assess security conditions and promote unity, youth leaders say the lack of formal consultation undermined its objectives and missed an opportunity to build trust and cooperation with the very group expected to lead local stability efforts.