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Gola Boyoi Gola is a public servant, political leader, and development advocate whose life journey has been shaped by resilience, service, and a deep commitment to the people of the Greater Pibor Administrative Area. Born on 1 January 1986 in Nyerdede, Jom, Pibor County, Gola is from the Murle community of Lothila Payam, Gumuruk County. He grew up in Pibor and experienced the hardships of conflict and displacement from an early age.

During the liberation struggle, Gola lost his father and was raised by his mother, who supported the family through a small tea business. Her determination and sacrifice became one of the strongest influences on his character. From her, he learned the values of hard work, humility, resilience, and self-reliance—principles that continue to guide his approach to public service.

Education and Professional FormationGola began his primary education at Pibor Basic School in 1991. Because of the conflict, he and his family fled to Panyado Refugee Camp in Ethiopia. He returned to Pibor in 1992 and continued his education, eventually completing his primary education in 2003. He later attended Supiri Secondary School in Juba before continuing his secondary education at Tahadi Secondary School in Omdurman, Khartoum, Sudan, where he obtained the Sudan Secondary School Certificate in 2006.

Gola subsequently enrolled at Al-Neelain University in Khartoum, where he studied Political Science and graduated in 2012 with an Honors Bachelor’s Degree. He’s currently pursuing his Master’s in Security Management at Egerton University in Kenya, where he’s now working on his thesis. His academic background in Political Science provided him with a foundation in governance, public administration, political institutions, and leadership.Military Service and Leadership FormationIn 2014, Gola joined military training at the Mapel Training Center and was subsequently commissioned as a Second Lieutenant.

He served in the military until 2019. His military experience strengthened his understanding of discipline, responsibility, teamwork, leadership, and the importance of organized institutions. In 2019, he transitioned into youth leadership and politics, entering electoral politics and successfully contesting a competitive youth leadership position. For Gola, this marked an important transition from military service to political and civic leadership. It gave him direct experience in electoral competition, representation, grassroots engagement, and the responsibilities of elected leadership.

Experience in Traditional and Community LeadershipGola’s understanding of public administration was further shaped by his work with the late Sultan Ismail Konyi, for whom he served as his Executive Director. This experience exposed him closely to traditional leadership and community affairs in Pibor. While recognizing the important role traditional institutions play in maintaining social cohesion and resolving community matters, Gola also identified the need for stronger administrative structures, clearer development priorities, and effective coordination between traditional authorities and government institutions.

This experience contributed to his belief that traditional leadership and formal government institutions should work together in serving communities.Public Administration and Service to Greater Pibor.

Gola later assumed the role of Chief Administrator of the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA) in 2024. His entry into the position, as he describes it, followed a recommendation by Gen. David Yauyau, rather than a personal lobbying campaign. Upon assuming responsibility, he faced the challenge of administering an area that required significant investment in infrastructure, education, health, security, roads, and institutional development. His administration has sought to work with government institutions, development partners, traditional leaders, and communities to address these challenges and create the foundations for long-term development.

Development Priorities and Record During his period of public service, Gola has identified and pursued development priorities including infrastructure, education, transportation, health, security and local economic development.Among the initiatives associated with his administration are:

● Road rehabilitation and connectivity linking counties within the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, with support from development partners including WFP.

● Demarcation, town planning, and opening of roads in Pibor town as part of efforts to improve urban planning and connectivity.

● Construction of more than eight classrooms in primary schools across three counties, funded by the World Bank and implemented by the IOM.Establishment of a new secondary school in Pibor.

● Through the support of the Korean Mission in South Sudan ROK-HMEC he managed to secure a solar power plan in Pibor which is currently being implemented with completion expected to be on December 2026.

● Rehabilitation of the Pibor airstrip, with support through the World Bank and the Ministry of Finance.

● Supporting the education and health sectors by providing incentives to healthcare workers and Teachers, and promoting peace, security, and local production.

● Promotion of stronger cooperation between government institutions, traditional leaders, development partners, and local communities.

● Stopping age-sets fighting within Pibor town which restored peace among the different age-sets within the Pibor Town.

These efforts reflect his broader belief that infrastructure and strong institutions are essential foundations for sustainable development.Leadership PhilosophyGola Boyoi Gola believes that leadership is fundamentally about service. His leadership philosophy is built around five principles:

● Service: Public office should be used to serve communities and improve people’s lives.

● Accountability: Public leaders should be answerable to the people and responsible for the proper use of public resources.

● Unity: The diversity of communities within Greater Pibor should be treated as a source of strength and cooperation.

● Self-Reliance: Communities should be empowered to produce, trade, and build sustainable livelihoods rather than depend permanently on external assistance.

● Institution Building: Sustainable development requires strong, professional, and accountable institutions that can continue serving citizens beyond individual leaders.Vision for Greater PiborGola’s vision is to help build a peaceful, connected, productive, modern, and self-reliant Greater Pibor Administrative Area. His development vision focuses on several key priorities:

● A Tourism Hub: Develop Greater Pibor’s natural, cultural, and wildlife potential to make the area a destination for visitors from South Sudan and around the world.

● A Modern and Green Pibor: Transform Pibor town into a modern, clean, and environmentally responsible administrative and commercial center.

● Road Connectivity: Work toward connecting the seven counties of Greater Pibor through improved roads and transportation networks.

● Agriculture and Food Security: Promote agriculture as a foundation of food security, local production, employment and economic development.

● Education: Continue investment in schools, classrooms and opportunities for young people.

● Healthcare: Improve access to quality basic health services across the Greater Pibor area.

● Peace and Security: Strengthen peacebuilding, community dialogue and security institutions as essential conditions for development.

● Cross-Border Trade: Pursue the opening and development of the border with Ethiopia to facilitate legitimate trade and create new economic opportunities.

● Strong Institutions: Strengthen local government institutions to make public services more effective, accountable, and sustainable.Commitment to Youth and WomenGola believes the future of Greater Pibor depends heavily on its young people. He advocates greater investment in education, skills development, employment, entrepreneurship, and meaningful participation of youth in public affairs.

His personal experience of being raised by a hardworking single mother has also shaped his appreciation for women’s contributions to families and society. He supports greater opportunities for women in education, economic activity, leadership, and community development.

The Legacy He SeeksGola Boyoi Gola seeks to contribute to a Greater Pibor where children have access to education, communities are connected by roads, families can produce their own food, citizens have access to healthcare, communities live in peace, and institutions can deliver public services. His aspiration is to see Pibor recognized not primarily for the challenges it has endured, but for its people, culture, natural environment, tourism potential, agricultural opportunities, and growing institutions.

He seeks to leave behind a Greater Pibor that is more peaceful, more connected, cleaner, greener, more productive and better prepared for future generations.

A Life Shaped by Service

JUBA — The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has officially announced the passing of its highly respected Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) and Head of Mission, Nicholas Haysom. UNMISS also mourned his loss. In a solemn statement released to the public, the UN peacekeeping mission paid tribute to the veteran South African diplomat. His tenure in Juba was defined by his efforts to navigate the world’s youngest nation. He guided it through its complex and often volatile transitional peace process.

“A Beacon of Hope “The official UNMISS communication highlighted Haysom’s profound impact on both the mission and the host country.

The Tribute: The mission praised his “principled leadership.” They also recognized his wisdom, diplomatic skills, and unwavering commitment to peace in South Sudan and across the globe.

Enduring Legacy: The statement emphasized Haysom’s deep respect across political divides. It noted that he “inspired all those whose lives he touched.” His legacy will continue to serve as a “beacon of hope” for the nation’s ongoing pursuit of stability.

A Critical Loss at a Critical Juncture. Haysom’s passing arrives at a highly sensitive moment for South Sudan.

As the Head of UNMISS, he was a central international figure in urging the transitional government to meet the benchmarks of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. He consistently advocated for the protection of civilians. He promoted the opening of political and civic space. He also facilitated the necessary logistical preparations for the country’s first democratic elections.

His death has resonated deeply not only within the United Nations but also at the highest levels of regional leadership. Just days prior, President Salva Kiir Mayardit, during his official state visit to Pretoria, formally extended his condolences to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, explicitly recognizing Haysom’s instrumental service to South

JUBA — South Sudan is grappling with a rapidly deteriorating internal security situation. It is marked by massacres in the north. There is also a controversial military expansion in Jonglei State. At the same time, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a rare condemnation of regional missile attacks in the Middle East.

1. The Abiemnom Massacre: 169 Confirmed Dead

On March 2, 2026, the Ministry of Information released a formal statement. The statement addressed a “barbaric” dawn attack on Abiemnom County, Ruweng Administrative Area. This attack occurred at 4:29 AM on Sunday, March 1.

Casualties: The government confirmed that over 169 people were killed and more than 68 wounded.

High-Profile Losses: Among the dead are the County Commissioner of Awarpiny and the Executive Director of Abiemnom County.

Government Stance: Minister Ateny Wek Ateny condemned the “heinous and cowardly” act. He directed security organs to investigate the incident. They must hold those responsible accountable. He urged communities to refrain from retaliatory actions.

2. Civil Society Urges Halt to Akobo Military Offensive

Civil Society Networks from all 10 States and 3 Administrative Areas issued a joint appeal on March 7, 2026. They addressed President Salva Kiir Mayardit. They urged him to put an immediate hold on orders issued by the Chief of Defense Forces (CDF).

The Orders: The CDF has reportedly ordered the extension of military operations into Akobo County. This includes the mandatory relocation of civilians. Additionally, the UNMISS facility will be closed.

Humanitarian Alarm: Civil society leaders warn that these orders violate the 2018 R-ARCSS. They caution that this will lead to “horrible consequences.” These consequences include trauma, displacement, and maiming of vulnerable groups like children, women, and the elderly.

Previous Hostilities: The statement noted that the people of Uror, Ayod, Nyirol, and Duk have already suffered immensely. They have faced ongoing confrontations between the SSPDF and SPLA-IO.

3. Lou Nuer Community Council Warns of “Genocide”

On February 18, 2026, the Lou Nuer Community Council (LNCC) expressed deep concern. They are worried about the “increasing devastating security situation” in northern Jonglei.

Operation Allegations: The LNCC alleged that SSPDF operations in Lou Nuer areas (Uror, Nyirol, and Akobo) have resulted in the burning of houses, destruction of water points, and killing of vulnerable groups.

General Johnson Olony: The Council highlighted public announcements by General Johnson Olony Thabo. They claimed he ordered soldiers to “leave no stone unturned.” He allegedly targeted markets, health, and educational facilities.

Genocide Warning: The LNCC stated these atrocities could lead to a “crime of genocide” against the Lou Nuer community. They appealed to both the SSPDF and SPLA-IO to stop hostilities. They urged them to engage in dialogue.

4. Foreign Policy: Condemnation of Middle East Attacks

There was a notable shift toward global diplomatic engagement. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation issued a press statement on March 6, 2026. This statement addressed the situation in the Middle East.

Iran Condemned: South Sudan condemned missile and drone attacks. These were launched by the Islamic Republic of Iran against “friendly countries.” These countries include Israel, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Türkiye, and others.

Violation of Law: The Ministry described the targeting of the energy sector as a violation of international law. They also viewed the impact on supply chains through the Strait of Hormuz as a breach of the UN Charter.

Alignment: The Government agreed with the statements issued by AU Commission Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf. They also concurred with UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

JUBA — A coalition of Western diplomatic missions in South Sudan has issued a stern demand for accountability following the brutal March 1 assault on Abiemnom County in the Ruweng Administrative Area, which resulted in the deaths of at least 169 people.

The European Union delegation and several embassies released a joint statement today, March 5, 2026. They included the United States, United Kingdom, Norway, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. The statement expressed “appall” at the scale of the atrocities. They urged the transitional government to hold the perpetrators accountable.

The Massacre: Impact and Casualties

The dawn raid, characterized by its extreme violence, reportedly targeted both high-ranking officials and vulnerable civilians.

Officials Targeted: The victims included the County Commissioner of Awarpiny and other senior local authorities who were killed during the initial phase of the assault.

Civilians and Families: Diplomats highlighted that many of those killed were women and children. Over 1,000 residents were forced to flee as homes and markets were set ablaze.

Death Toll Rising: While 169 died on the spot, additional victims have since succumbed to their injuries in hospitals in Abyei, where dozens were referred for specialized trauma care.

Diplomatic Pressure on South Sudan’s Leadership

The joint declaration places direct responsibility on the nation’s political leaders. They must prevent such “recurring insecurity” from derailing the 2026 election roadmap.

“South Sudan’s leaders have to work together to end violence and reset peace across the country. Those responsible for these atrocities must be held to account.”

Unity State Denials and Investigations

The diplomatic pressure comes amid a growing row between neighboring state administrations. Local survivors and Ruweng officials alleged that the attackers were armed youth from Mayom County. Yet, the government of Unity State has issued a categorical denial. Unity State authorities have, nevertheless, pledged to investigate the incident and cooperate with security forces to find the culprits.