A minister from South Sudan has called for the independence of Abyei region, citing issues related to oil and land ownership between South Sudan and Sudan.
The minister, who has requested anonymity, claimed that the people of Abyei have been marginalized by the Sudanese government.
He further stated that the region's economy is heavily reliant on oil and that the Sudanese government has not allocated sufficient funds to develop the area.
The minister also expressed his frustration with the lack of progress in resolving the issue of land ownership, which he believes is a major point of contention between the two countries.
He is quoted as saying:
"The people of Abyei have been marginalized for a long time. They have been denied their rights to their land and resources. We want independence for Abyei so that we can manage our own resources and make our own decisions."
South Sudan and Sudan have a long-standing dispute over the region of Abyei, which is rich in oil reserves.
The minister's comments come as tensions between the two countries remain high, with both sides accusing each other of violating a peace agreement.
It is worth noting that the demand for independence has been a long-standing issue in the region, with many residents feeling that they have been left behind in the peace process.
Author's Note: The call for independence in Abyei region highlights the ongoing challenges in the South Sudan-Sudan peace process, where issues of land ownership, resource management, and marginalization continue to plague the region.