Nimule, 08 Jan 2026; Members of the Dinka community are reportedly intensifying efforts to be recognized as one of the indigenous tribes of Nimule, a town traditionally regarded as the homeland of the Ma’di people. The latest push has sparked controversy after details emerged from a Zoom meeting allegedly held secretly and chaired by the spokesperson of the Jieng Council of Elders (JCE), Mr. Aldo Ajou Deng. 

According to an audio recording said to have been made at an undisclosed location in Northern Bahr el Ghazal shortly before Christmas, participants argued that their numerical presence in Nimule entitles them to political representation. They reportedly demanded seats in the Nimule constituency, as well as representation in the National Legislative Assembly in Juba and the Eastern Equatoria State Legislative Assembly in Torit. 

The group is said to have tasked Mr. Aldo Ajou Deng with advancing these demands through various channels, including engagement with the Office of the President. In addition, Mr. Deng was reportedly asked to spearhead efforts for Dinka representation in other areas, including the Anyuak homeland, particularly Akobo. The meeting also discussed ambitions to establish settlements in Kajo-Keji and Morobo counties in Central Equatoria State. 

This is not the first time such demands have surfaced. Approximately three years ago, Dinka groups publicly called on the Ma’di community to recognize them as indigenous to Nimule. At the time, they reportedly stated that if the Ma’di people were unwilling to accept this position, they should relocate to areas such as Loa and Pageri. The current call for representation in national and state legislatures, however, marks a new development. 

“This demand for political representation at both national and state levels is unprecedented and unacceptable,” said a youth from Nimule, who described the move as unrealistic. 

Tensions remain high among sections of the local population. A boda-boda rider at the Nimule border expressed strong opposition, citing historical grievances. “Our people have been stranded in Oliji Refugee Camp since 1989 after our homes and land were forcefully taken by armed groups. We will not allow this to happen again,” he said. 

The issue has since triggered widespread debate on social media, with some residents urging Eastern Equatoria State Governor Louis Lobong to intervene urgently. Critics warn that failure to act could result in local communities taking matters into their own hands. Some voices have called for the repatriation of Dinka populations who fled to Nimule nearly three decades ago in search of safety, suggesting relocation to refugee camps in Uganda if conditions in their home regions remain insecure. 

While earlier demands were reportedly driven mainly by Dinka Bor groups, observers say the current push appears to reflect a broader agenda involving Dinka communities at large. 

Andrew Olweny  

SSLN