Bor communities unite behind Abii Payam in landmark peace deal

BOR – Three communities in Bor County have reached a landmark agreement to unite under the newly accepted Abii Payam administrative structure, a development local authorities and traditional leaders say could transform peace, governance, and service delivery in the area.

The Commissioner of Bor County, Samuel Ateny Pech, welcomed the joint decision by the Mach Ayiel, Biong, and Nyara communities, calling it a breakthrough achieved through sustained dialogue and mutual understanding. He said it marks the first time the three communities’ leadership has formally agreed to operate under a single administrative entity.

Speaking to the media this week, Ateny described the agreement as a historic milestone for Bor County and a demonstration that long-standing communal and administrative disputes can be resolved 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,” he said. “This is a positive step toward strengthening administration, improving security, and fostering grassroots development.”

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 and pledged to resolve future disagreements through consultation rather than confrontation.

In a collective appeal, the traditional leaders called on the Jonglei State government to formally inaugurate Abii Payam by raising its flag, saying official recognition would consolidate peace, enhance security arrangements, and improve access to public services across the area.

Commissioner Ateny reiterated the county government’s readiness to support community-led peace initiatives and urged residents to embrace dialogue as the foundation for lasting stability in Bor County and Jonglei State at large. He added that the successful formation of Abii Payam could serve as a model for resolving similar local administrative and communal challenges elsewhere in the state.

The Abii dispute has its roots in long-standing administrative and communal disagreements among the Mach Ayiel, Biong, and Nyara communities. For years, tensions persisted over leadership structures, territorial boundaries, and recognition of local administrative authority. The absence of a formally recognised payam contributed to mistrust and occasional localised conflicts, disrupting social cohesion and service delivery.

Community members have previously raised concerns over representation, competition for limited resources, and fears of marginalisation within the county administrative system. The latest agreement, however, signals a new chapter anchored in cooperation, shared governance, and a collective vision for peace and development.