Nuer Leaders Call for Dismissal of Minister Over Divisive Comments
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Nuer community leaders in Juba are demanding the dismissal of Cabinet Affairs Minister Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro for his divisive remarks labeling certain Nuer-majority counties as “hostile” to the government. The backlash stems from Lomuro’s comments categorizing specific counties as either “friendly” or “hostile” based on their perceived loyalty to President Salva Kiir’s administration.
Accusations of Incitement and “Genocidal Profiling”
The Nuer leaders accuse Lomuro of incitement and “genocidal profiling” for his statements, which they believe exacerbate ethnic tensions in a country still recovering from civil war. Lomuro’s remarks singled out counties such as Nasir, Ulang, Akobo, Nyirol, Uror, Fangak, Ayod, Rubkona, and Panyijiar, alleging their alignment with the opposition SPLM-IO led by detained First Vice President Riek Machar.
Condemnation and Calls for Action
Critics have condemned Lomuro’s comments, warning of the dangerous implications of his rhetoric on ethnic divisions. The Nuer Leadership Peace Forum, led by Labor Minister Gen. James Hoth Mai, rejected attempts to downplay the controversy, labeling Lomuro’s words as a “dangerous escalation” that could undermine peace efforts in the region.
Appeal to President Kiir
The Nuer leaders have called on President Kiir to dismiss Lomuro, citing protections against discrimination in the U.N. Charter. They emphasize the need to address inflammatory language that could further strain relations between ethnic groups, particularly in light of existing tensions from recent conflicts in Jonglei and Equatoria.
Ongoing Instability in South Sudan
South Sudan, a nation that gained independence in 2011, continues to grapple with instability despite a fragile power-sharing agreement between Kiir and Machar. The failure to establish lasting peace has raised concerns ahead of the scheduled elections in December 2026.
As tensions escalate, the Nuer community leaders remain adamant in their demand for accountability and unity in a country striving for stability and reconciliation.
