South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Waure Eddy
The Governor of Western Equatoria State, James Al Tabi Berapai, has urged the people of his state to reject violence and embrace reconciliation. He emphasised the importance of healing and accountability in the aftermath of years of conflict.
Speaking to reporters and community members at the Yambio airstrip upon his return from Juba on Saturday, Governor Berapai, accompanied by the National Minister of Youth and Sports and government officials, highlighted the importance of collective healing and accountability, particularly among influential figures in Western Equatoria State.
He called on all sons and daughters of the state to reject violence and engage in dialogue, regardless of past grievances.
“I’m happy to be here today in my state,” he said. “Yes, it’s true that the people of Western Equatoria have faced challenges, difficulties, and war for a long time. But I stand here as a man of peace to say: the time for peace is now.”
He reiterated the need for collective healing and accountability, especially among influential voices within the state. He urged all citizens of WES to reject violence and embrace dialogue, irrespective of past misunderstandings.
“War is not the solution. We must return to peace and leave war behind. God created us to be peacemakers, and we must live up to that calling.”
Governor Berapai also reflected on the spiritual and moral dimensions of peace, warning that without harmony, the community risks losing its identity and direction.
“When we are at peace, we are children of God. But when peace is absent, we lose our way. It’s time to realign ourselves, maintain security, and build harmony so we can develop our state and fulfil our duties.”
He acknowledged that other states in South Sudan have made strides in development, while WES remains behind largely due to internal conflict. His final appeal was both urgent and hopeful.
“We must stop war from the bottom of our hearts. Let us work for peace, accept peace, and move forward with peace and development for all.”
As the governor embarks on this new chapter of leadership, his message resonates as a rallying cry for reconciliation, unity, and progress in Western Equatoria State. Peace, he insists, is not just a dream—it is a duty.
