“Expel Anti-Racist Advocates from Country”
A harsh call to action emerged from the Sudanese-Australian community following a recent tragedy in Melbourne. Ajak Monychol, a Sudanese-Australian activist, released a powerful video that has since gone viral, expressing his disapproval of violence among community members. His strong stance advocates for expelling individuals who engage in violent acts from the country.
Urgent Message Against Violence
Ajak’s message gained traction after the tragic stabbing deaths of two teenagers, Chol Achiek, 12, and Dau Akueng, 15. Both boys were murdered in Cobblebank, a suburb in Melbourne, while returning home from basketball in September. A total of eight suspects face murder charges related to this case.
Community Impacts
In his video, which garnered over 800,000 views, Ajak emphasized the broader impact of crimes committed by a few individuals. “If you’re killing people, you can’t be here,” he stated. His comments resonated deeply with both the Sudanese community and the general public, stirring conversations about the escalating crime rates in Melbourne.
- Ajak criticized the “victim mindset” prevalent in discussions surrounding youth crime.
- He expressed frustration with excuses that attribute violent behavior to upbringing in war-torn countries.
- Ajak called for accountability, stating, “If you’re doing that sh, you’re a bad person.”
Concerns Amid Rising Youth Crime
Statistics indicate a concerning trend in youth crime, particularly incidents involving machetes. Reports suggest that teenagers are committing violent crimes at an unprecedented rate. Many are frequently released on bail, even after serious offenses.
Community reactions to Ajak’s comments were largely supportive. Many voiced their dismay over the damage done to the reputation of South Sudanese people in Australia. “The image of South Sudanese people in Aus has been so damaged,” one commenter noted.
Community Leaders Respond
Leaders in the South Sudanese community expressed sorrow and concern for the future after the deaths of Chol and Dau. At a vigil, Chol’s father reiterated the risks associated with violence, emphasizing the importance of protecting their children.
Government Initiatives
In response to these tragic events, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan convened a meeting with South Sudanese community representatives. “Every Victorian is thinking of them and holding them close to their hearts,” she expressed, offering condolences to the victims’ families.
The government plans to form the South Sudanese Australian Youth Justice Expert Working Group, aiming for collaborative solutions to combat violent crime in the community. Premier Allan highlighted the need for solutions to arise from within the community itself.
As discussions continue, Ajak’s message remains clear: violent individuals must be removed from society to ensure the safety and dignity of all community members. The hope is to find a path forward that honors the intent of those who came to Australia seeking a better life.
