Twic County suspends three chiefs over deadly land dispute in Aweng Payam

KUAJOK – Authorities in Twic County of South Sudan’s Warrap State have suspended three local chiefs over their alleged involvement in a land dispute that escalated into violent clashes, leaving two people dead, including a woman, officials confirmed.

The incident occurred in Aweng Payam, where disagreements over land ownership reportedly degenerated into a physical confrontation between rival groups. The violence prompted swift action from county authorities amid growing concerns over insecurity and the role of traditional leaders in fueling communal conflicts.

According to a resolution issued by the Office of the Executive Director of Twic County, the suspended officials are Executive Chief Muor-ter Riing Yuot, Executive Chief Anei Manyang Anei, and Sub-Chief Deng Anei. The three are accused of incitement and involvement in the dispute that led to the fatal brawl.

Twic County Commissioner Mabior Marup said the suspension was necessary to pave the way for an independent investigation and to prevent further escalation of the conflict.

“We have suspended Chief Muor-ter Riing Yuot, Chief Anei Manyang Anei, and Sub-Chief Deng Anei to allow investigations to proceed without interference,” Commissioner Marup said. “This decision was taken in the interest of peace and justice, especially because the dispute resulted in the loss of lives.”

Marup added that interim leadership arrangements have been put in place, with Executive Chief Kuol Deng Angui appointed to temporarily replace Muor-ter Riing Yuot.

“This land dispute was disastrous for Aweng Payam. The arguments and tensions surrounding it became uncontrollable,” he said. “We have decided to leave the matter to the courts while the chiefs remain out of office, as they are suspected of inciting the violence.”

The commissioner further revealed that several arrests have already been made, including three individuals described as prime suspects who allegedly colluded to trigger the fighting over the contested land.

Land-related conflicts remain a persistent challenge across South Sudan, particularly in rural communities where land ownership is closely tied to identity, inheritance, and power. Local authorities and residents often accuse individuals with political or social influence of exploiting such disputes by mobilising relatives or supporters to unlawfully acquire land.

Despite the existence of the South Sudan Land Act, complaints over violations of land acquisition procedures are widespread. Observers say weak enforcement of the law, combined with traditional authority structures and political interference, continues to undermine efforts to resolve land disputes peacefully.

County authorities say they hope the suspensions and ongoing investigations will help restore calm in Aweng Payam and serve as a warning against the abuse of leadership positions to incite violence.