Yei Civil Society, Residents Urge New Commissioner to Prioritize Security and Development

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) — Civil society leaders and residents in Yei River County are calling on the newly appointed commissioner to prioritize peace, security, and development to improve livelihoods in the area.

On Wednesday, Commissioner Samuel Batali Malimbo was officially received and installed at the county headquarters, taking over from former commissioner Emmanuel Taban Seme.

Speaking to Access Radio on Thursday, the chairperson of the Yei Civil Society Forum, Modi Arkangelo, emphasized that restoring stability is essential for economic recovery, particularly in agriculture. He noted that Yei, once regarded as a food basket, can regain its status if security is improved.

“As civil society, we are ready to work with the county leadership. Yei is known as a food basket, and there must be stable security so people can farm, conduct business freely, and live without fear,” Arkangelo said. He also urged the commissioner to embrace inclusive and transparent governance and collaborate closely with community leaders and local councils.

Residents also welcomed the new leadership, expressing hope for improved service delivery and infrastructure development. Kenyi Elisa John, a resident and headman of Hai Peace area, said the community expects tangible progress, particularly in road and bridge rehabilitation.

“We welcome our new commissioner. Development in Yei town has been slow, and many roads and bridges are in poor condition. While the former commissioner made some efforts, more needs to be done,” he said.

Kenyi further called for strengthened security to support both urban residents and farmers across the county. He urged the commissioner to work closely with all stakeholders, including traditional leaders and citizens, to address ongoing challenges facing the community.

The calls come as residents look to the new administration to restore stability and accelerate development in Yei River County.