Three newly appointed caretaker commissioners in Eastern Equatoria State on Tuesday stressed their commitment to promoting peace and stability while taking the oath of office presided over by Governor Louis Lobong at the state secretariat in Torit.
On Monday evening, Lobong indefinitely suspended three commissioners: Polepole Benjamin Olum of Magwi County, Paul Lokale of Kapoeta South County, and Christopher Andrew Philipson Abilly of Torit County. He then appointed caretaker commissioners for the affected counties; Lam Francis Gabriel will now lead Magwi County, while Jeff Longoria Lokipi and Lokang Charles Italian have been assigned to Kapoeta South and Torit Counties, respectively.
Jeff Longoria Lokipi of the South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA), the new caretaker commissioner for Kapoeta South County, who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, said they will work for peace.
“It is our mandate as grassroots commissioners to unite with the state government to stabilise and nurture peace within our communities,” he stated. “This is a milestone that demands the dedication of all of us. We will take the lead as commissioners and steer our mission in alignment with the expectations of our esteemed governor and President Salva Kiir Mayardit.”
“We are embarking on a journey towards peaceful coexistence, a journey that will uplift our neighbouring communities to understand the values of peaceful living as proud sons and daughters of this nation,” Longoria added.
He stressed the need for cooperation, saying this is a time to comprehend the challenges the country is facing and guide the country to stability.
“We must educate our communities against being swayed by those who thrive on discord,” he said. “Let us inspire our communities to join hands in supporting the Government of Eastern Equatoria State in restoring peace and transforming the state into a beacon of tranquillity and harmony within South Sudan.”
For his part, Charles Udwar Ukech, Speaker of the Eastern Equatoria State Transitional Legislative Assembly, reminded the new officials of their pivotal roles.
“You will serve as the chairpersons of security in your respective counties,” he counselled. “Please support the governor and the government in efforts to stabilise security within your jurisdictions.”
Udwar emphasised that the upcoming elections would involve all parties and encouraged inclusivity.
“Give opportunities for dialogue within the communities. It is crucial to remember that your appointment comes from the governor, and you represent his authority,” he said. “Even the watchman operates on behalf of the governor, as he is the head of the state. Adhere to your directives and the guiding principles of the local government act; your powers are bestowed upon you.”
Meanwhile, Governor Lobong commended the outgoing commissioners for their service. He urged the newly appointed officials to “continue to act in accordance with what is right, considering both your conscience and the needs of the people.”
Lobong explained that the suspended commissioners were appointed by the president, who will determine their fate.
“The final decisions regarding their relief will be addressed, and your role as caretakers is crucial until permanent commissioners are appointed,” he said. “You are empowered to act fully in your positions; do not wait for anything else, you will be appointed fully.”