State Security Committee Calls on Parents to Protect Children

By Emelda Siama John

The State Security Committee has urged parents to take greater responsibility for their children after 11 cases of suicide involving minors aged 18 and below were reported in Juba this week.

The appeal came during the committee’s 9th ordinary meeting, chaired by Central Equatoria State Governor Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, where members discussed key security and social issues affecting the state.

Addressing the press after the meeting, Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Abe Leon Brown expressed alarm over the surge in youth suicides.

“We have recorded 11 cases of suicide this week alone, largely linked to drug abuse among children under 18. As parents, guardians, and citizens of Central Equatoria and South Sudan, we must take responsibility. These children are our future. If we guide them well and provide proper leadership, they will build a better tomorrow. We should not neglect them or allow them to wander aimlessly in the streets,” he said.

The minister also highlighted the growing problem of land grabbing, which he said is obstructing the work of the Ministry of Land and Housing.

“The state plans to assess 13 areas, but rightful owners with legal documents are facing challenges because of land grabbers. This could spark violence, as some people are already resorting to pangas, sticks, and stones to interfere with surveys. We must follow legal procedures to resolve disputes. Lands with legal documents dating back to 2006 need proper recognition, and current occupants must be registered. If land is acquired from citizens, the government will ensure fair relocation. Respecting the law and maintaining order is the only way forward,” he explained.

In addition, Brown called on residents of Nyamini to reconcile longstanding disputes among five clans in the area. He emphasized that unity, love, and mutual respect are vital to achieving lasting peace and security in the community.