The newly appointed Governor of Western Bahr el Ghazal State, Emmanuel Primo Okello, has pledged to make the security and stability of the state his top priorities as he assumes office.
On November 18, President Salva Kiir appointed Okello, replacing Sarah Cleto Rial. Okello arrived in Wau, the capital of Western Bahr el Ghazal, on Monday to officially take up his duties.
Upon his arrival at Wau’s main stadium, Okello addressed the public, emphasizing that security would be the primary focus of his administration. He expressed gratitude to the state’s security forces for their efforts in ensuring his safe arrival and reiterated his commitment to working closely with them.
“Security will be our top priority. I thank the security forces for their efforts, which have made my arrival possible. Our motto is unity and development because Western Bahr el Ghazal needs unity as the foundation for progress,” Okello stated.
The new governor also pledged to collaborate with all stakeholders in the state, including all political parties, to foster a conducive political environment.
“On our political program and the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, I will join hands with the state government to create a working environment that promotes unity among all political parties,” he said. “Every political party has the freedom to carry out its activities in a democratic manner.”
Okello, who is a member of the SPLM-IO Party, emphasized that his administration would distance itself from the misuse of public funds. He assured the citizens that revenues collected would be used to improve livelihoods, particularly through the provision of health services.
“We will ensure the responsible use of public funds. If resources are limited, we will prioritize government activities, and the remainder will go toward improving the lives of our citizens, particularly through health services,” Okello concluded.
Meanwhile, Deputy Governor Zackariah Joseph Garang, who is a member of the ruling SPLM party, outlined some of the challenges the state is facing, particularly the economic hardships affecting the citizens.
“We should work together, Mr. Governor. As leaders of government, let’s focus on governance rather than political interests. We must set aside political activities when we are in the government office and work as a unified government. This will enable us to achieve success,” Garang said.
He also noted the economic challenges facing the public, including delayed salaries and high market prices, which he said contributed to a lower-than-expected turnout for the governor’s reception.
“When you talk to people on the streets, they are not happy with the current situation,” Garang added.
The governor arrived in Wau amid heightened security tensions, as a faction of the SPLA-IO rejected his appointment.