28 February 2013 - Unity residents would receive better government protection once they surrendered their arms, Deputy State Governor Michael Chiegjek Geah said at a civilian disarmament workshop in the capital Bentiu today.

"Let (us leave) arms ... in the hands of the security organs, and if there is need for security for the citizens, the government will provide it," said Mr. Geah, who is also the State Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement.

Some 54 participants, including political, traditional and religious leaders as well as women and youth representatives, attended the two-day forum, which was organized by the local government ministry in collaboration with Pacific Architects and Engineering, an organization working for conflict mitigation and stabilization.

Acting UNMISS State Coordinator Kwame Dwamena-Aboagye called on political and traditional leaders to explore ways to disarm civilians peacefully.