South Sudanese urged to recall peaceful dispute resolution history
A letter argues that traditions of settling quarrels through elders and compensation are as much a part of heritage as past wars.
A letter to South Sudanese citizens recalls that their history includes rich traditions of peacefully settling disputes, not just years of war since 1955.
The author cites examples like Nuer communities using a 'leopard-skin chief' to mediate feuds and negotiate cattle compensation, and Dinka values of 'cieng' for mutual care and 'dheeng' for dignified conduct.
Oral histories from Kakwa communities around Yei also value chiefs for "good speech" in negotiating with armed groups, suggesting leaders have an obligation to hear the people affected by their decisions.
Why it mattersSouth Sudanese citizens are reminded of their cultural heritage of peaceful conflict resolution to inform how they live together as a nation.