“We are reunited”: Governor Rin declares end to Agaar isolation

Lakes State Governor Rin Tueny Mabor hailed the recent Agaar Community Conference as a historic act of reconciliation, effectively ending the perceived social isolation of the Agaar from the wider Dinka family.

Governor Rin Tueny presided over the closing ceremony of the Agaar Community Conference, hailing it as a historic turning point that confirms peace, unity, and reconciliation have finally taken hold in the state.

Addressing a massive gathering of elders, youth, and women on Friday, the successful conference sends a powerful message to the world that Lakes State has entered a new era of stability and coexistence.

He underscored the conference’s role in restoring the standing and reputation of the Agaar community, noting that chiefs from the Malual Gier’Nyang community openly praised the state government’s firm enforcement of law and order.

“This meeting is a clear demonstration of unity and reconciliation,” the Governor said. “Agaar was once viewed as estranged from the wider Dinka community, but through our collective efforts to promote peace, we are now reunited.”

The Governor urged residents to bury past grievances and embrace the resolutions adopted during the conference, stressing that sustainable peace depends on strong social cohesion and respect for the rule of law.

Turning to public health, he addressed Lakes State’s high HIV/AIDS prevalence, calling on those living with the virus to seek treatment at health facilities and encouraging those unaware of their status to get tested.

He reassured the public that HIV/AIDS is no longer a death sentence, citing advances in modern medicine, and urged communities to reject stigma and despair.

In a notable moment, the Governor paid tribute to Lakes citizens living abroad, referring to them as “County No. 9.” He cautioned against exploiting members of the diaspora and instead appealed for their support in rebuilding the state.

“Let us stop conning our people in the diaspora,” he said. “We should motivate them to return home and help increase our population and workforce.”

Commending the three counties of Rumbek for setting a positive example, the Governor challenged other counties across Lakes State to emulate their commitment to peace and unity.
He praised elders, women, and youth for taking the lead in shaping a new and peaceful future for the state.

“This ceremony proves the doubters wrong,” the Governor concluded. “Peace has prevailed. I am proud to be the Governor of Lakes State and to preside over this historic milestone.”