CES Governor Orders Land Grabbers in Juba to Vacate Open Lands
By Kidega Livingstone
The Governor of Central Equatoria State has ordered those illegally occupying public open spaces around Juba to vacate them immediately.
The directive came from the state government following reports that certain individuals have been illegally seizing open lands meant for community use.
In a press statement seen by Juba Echo during the state security meeting on Tuesday, Governor of Central Equatoria State, Lt. Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, said the illegal occupation of public areas is increasingly obstructing residents’ use of communal spaces in Juba.
“The illegal occupation of public areas has become a growing concern, particularly in parts of Juba where open spaces are being converted into private property. We are warning them to vacate those places immediately,” Governor Rabi directed.
He added, “We have received reports that some people are fencing off these places. We are telling them to stop.”
Governor Rabi also appealed to residents near these open spaces to cooperate with law enforcement if those responsible refuse to leave.
Meanwhile, Leon Abe Brown, the Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement, stressed that open spaces are essential for the social, cultural, and recreational development of the state and the nation as a whole.
He said the state government will continue inspecting suspected areas reported by residents to have been taken over by individuals.
According to the Minister, affected areas include Median Chelsea in Gudele II and Jebel Marketing Yard, which belong to the government.
Last month, the state government expressed concern about a rise in land grabbing in Lokwili, Durupi, and parts of the Joppa residential area in Juba.
