Several traders operating at Alwqaf in Konyo-Konyo are facing eviction over refusal to pay ground rent to the Islamic Council.
Ibrahim Awol Nyeki, Secretary of Information for the Islamic Council, said traders have been directed to comply or face eviction.
“We appeal to traders renting on shops at the commercial center of Alwqaf to urgently pay their rent to the Islamic Council or they will be evicted from the shops as of December 31, 2022,” Awol said during a press conference held at the Islamic Council office in Konyo-Konyo on Saturday.
Awol said the Islamic council will take legal measures against any trader who infringes on the land.
“South Sudan Islamic Council has the full right to take strict or legal measures against any traders who infringe on the land or claim ownership,” said Awol.
Kahid Juma Abdella, Secretary of Alwqaf Center denied the claim that a representative of the religious group attacked shop workers, and forced them to pay money.
For the last two years, Juba City Council and Islamic Council have claimed ownership of 400 shops in Alwqaf center in Konyo-Konyo market.
The court ordered both parties to pursue the case in the civil court, but both sides continue to demand traders to pay their share of ground rent leading to conflict.