Governor Lobong Welcomes Monyiemiji Finalists to Torit, Urges Unity Through Football
By Roselyn Oboy
Eastern Equatoria State Governor Gen. Louis Lobong Lojore has welcomed teams, officials and supporters to Torit for the Monyiemiji Football Tournament final, calling on South Sudanese to keep politics out of sports and use football to promote peace and national unity.
Speaking on Friday, Lobong said he had requested that the tournament final be held in Torit when he attended the opening ceremony in Juba. He said the decision was motivated by a desire to bring the tournament’s message of peace,unity and togetherness to Eastern Equatoria.
The governor said hosting the final in Torit would allow players to perform before their families and local communities while giving residents the opportunity to celebrate the talents of young athletes.
“Home will always be home,” Lobong said.
He described the tournament as a platform for showcasing youth talent and strengthening community bonds across the state.
Lobong also urged South Sudanese to separate sports from politics, saying football should serve as a unifying force that brings people together regardless of their differences.
“Football is for peace and unity. Let us disown politics when it comes to social activities, because such activities should be meant for uniting our people,” he said.
He said hosting the tournament final in Torit would help foster social cohesion and peaceful coexistence while creating an opportunity for communities from across Eastern Equatoria to celebrate together through sport.
The governor concluded by welcoming all participating teams, match officials and supporters to Torit and wished them a peaceful, successful and memorable tournament.
