Akobo County slams former petroleum minister over incendiary remarks

BOR – Authorities in Akobo County in South Sudan’s Jonglei State have strongly condemned what they describe as incendiary and threatening remarks allegedly made by former Minister of Petroleum Ezekiel Lol Gatkuoth, warning that such rhetoric risks endangering civilians and undermining fragile peace efforts in the area.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Akobo County Commissioner James Kueth Makuach rejected Gatkuoth’s recent public comments on the security situation in Jonglei, particularly his views on the ongoing fighting in Waat and Yuai and the role of armed groups opposed to the government.

Gatkuoth had described the violence in the two areas as “deeply concerning,” arguing that conflicts are being fueled in part by individuals in the diaspora while innocent civilians continue to suffer on the ground. He said women, children, the elderly, and ordinary families are always the main victims whenever fighting erupts.

“Conflict does not bring honour or solutions; it brings loss, displacement, and long-term trauma,” Gatkuoth wrote, calling on those encouraging violence from outside the country to reflect on the human cost of their actions.

He further stressed that the government has a constitutional duty to protect citizens and preserve national security. Referring to recent statements by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) spokesperson, Gatkuoth noted that civilians had been advised to keep away from military installations, a remark he interpreted as a signal that security operations against armed elements could be imminent.

While maintaining that dialogue should always be the preferred path to peace, Gatkuoth argued that there are circumstances in which peace must be enforced, particularly when armed groups threaten communities and undermine stability. He called for what he termed a carefully planned and responsible SSPDF operation in areas under the control of SPLA-IO and other “anti-peace elements,” including border towns such as Akobo.

According to Gatkuoth, strengthening government control over border areas should not be viewed as collective punishment but as a necessary step to restore order, protect civilians, and safeguard national sovereignty amid reports of arms smuggling into South Sudan.

However, Akobo County authorities said the remarks amount to hate speech and incitement against innocent civilians. Commissioner Makuach warned that any language that promotes or anticipates violence—particularly against women and children—is unacceptable and violates both national obligations and international humanitarian norms.

“The statements are deeply alarming and pose a serious risk to civilian safety, social cohesion, and the fragile peace in the area,” the county statement said.

The commissioner disclosed that the county administration has formally notified the international community, including diplomatic missions, humanitarian agencies, and human rights bodies, about the remarks. He warned that Gatkuoth would be held personally accountable for any harm, threats, or consequences arising from what the county described as provocative statements.

Reaffirming its commitment to peace, the statement said SPLM-IO authorities in Akobo County remain committed to the protection of civilians, the rule of law, and the full implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan.

The county leadership also urged political leaders and public figures to exercise restraint and avoid inflammatory rhetoric that could incite violence or derail peace efforts.

“The safety and dignity of civilians must remain paramount in all circumstances,” the statement concluded.