Lakes State Governor Gen. Rin Tueny Mabor has charged the newly appointed mayor of Rumbek Town to start preparing the townsfolk for the December 2024 elections and bring the era of appointed mayors to an end.
He was speaking on Monday during the swearing-in ceremony of Akol Manyang Magom who was recently appointed Rumbek mayor.
“I would like to congratulate the new mayor of Rumbek municipality. You deserve it but you came through consultations and not through democratic elections. In our Local Government Act, a mayor is elected but with the present situation in the country moving from transition, that is why you are appointed,” Governor Tueny stated. “If you work well, then you will be elected in December 2024. So, you work hard and prepare yourself and the people of Rumbek municipality for the December 2024 elections.”
He cautioned the new mayor against gossip and rumormongering, saying they are very dangerous.
“You better come forward and face me and this is a little advice I can give you. In your work, you will be guided by the Local Government Act and you represent the governor and the executive in your office,” Tueny said. “Secondly, you are going to take care of our security, including me, and all the citizens of Lakes State, South Sudanese, and foreigners in Rumbek are under your protection.”
The governor urged Mayor Manyang to abide by and work according to the law and encouraged him to promote the private sector and engage NGOs to support the growth of small businesses.
“I have now given you power and all of us will be watchful and if you go crazy, we will not leave you but if you try to use that power for your people, then we will have no problem,” Governor Tueny stressed. “The people will agree with you when you do good and not wrong things. You will learn from the public and your colleagues.”
“Finally, do not revenge and if you have any difficulties, please just consult,” he advised Mayor Manyang.
For his part, Rumbek Municipal Council Mayor Akol Manyang Magom appreciated the governor for trusting and appointing him to office.
“Thank you for the trust you have given me and I accepted to wholeheartedly serve my people and to the Government of Lakes State and to cooperate with all government officials, he said. “I have organized and have my manifesto which is going to be supported by the law. I will also enforce the law and the government.”