The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), with support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), on Saturday concluded a two-day civil-military dialogue in Lainya County’s Bereka Boma in Central Equatoria State.
This dialogue followed the recent deployment of a new contingent of an SSPDF commando unit to replace the ground forces who were stationed in the area during the past conflict. The goal was to orient the newly deployed forces and educate the local community on maintaining peace to facilitate the return of displaced residents.
CEPO project officer, Malic John Scopas, highlighted that the dialogue aimed to foster peaceful coexistence between the military and civilians to encourage civilians to return to their homes in Bereka.
“The dialogue brought together military and civilian participants from Bereka Boma to build a foundation for peaceful coexistence. We urge the government to implement the recommendations outlined by the local community in Lainya to ensure security and safety,” he said. “This time the community felt it wise to have a dialogue with the newly deployed commando forces of the SSPDF to avoid previous incidents.”
For his part, Retired Bishop Lihab Lako, a facilitator from Central Equatoria State, encouraged the army and civilians to support each other.
“We are here to complete our dialogue on civilian-military relationships. When the new army arrived, the land was empty and now they need to reconcile and protect the returning civilians,” he counseled. “Civilians should also support the military with necessities like food to foster cooperation.”
Meanwhile, Lainya County Head Chief Samuel Malik John emphasized the dialogue’s aim to encourage the return of the local community from Lainya to Bereka.
“People fled due to conflict and fear of returning due to potential intimidation from soldiers. Our dialogue has reassured them that the soldiers are here to protect them. Residents are now willing to return home and start farming, addressing food shortages,” he said. “We resolved that soldiers should see civilians as family members and rumors should be disregarded. The forces are here to protect the people and their property. We hope to see positive changes in Bereka soon.”
On her part, Dina David, a women’s representative from Bereka, urged all women who fled to return home, citing improved peace and stability.
“We need to return to Bereka to farm and alleviate hunger,” she stated. “We have lost many possessions and appeal to the government for support with shelter and blankets.”
Dina also called on NGOs to focus their attention on the returnees in Bereka Boma and provide essential support.
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