Yei Residents Urge Governor to Retain Former Commissioner

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – Some residents of Yei Town are calling on the newly appointed Caretaker Governor of Central Equatoria State, Augustino Jadalla Wani, to retain former Yei River County Commissioner Samuel Henry Malimbo as the county’s caretaker commissioner until elections are held in December 2026.

The residents say Malimbo should be allowed to continue leading the county to complete ongoing infrastructure projects and consolidate recent gains in security and stability.

Speaking to Access Radio on Thursday, Joel Taban, a resident of Dar el Salaam area, welcomed President Salva Kiir’s decision to appoint Jadalla as governor but urged him to prioritize continuity in local leadership.

“Our message to the caretaker governor is that we want Samuel Henry Malimbo to remain in office because we need him to complete the road and bridge construction projects currently underway in Yei County,” Taban said.

Kiden Betty, a resident of Lomuku Residential Area, echoed similar sentiments, praising the former commissioner for improving security and strengthening the rule of law during his tenure.

“The security situation in Yei has greatly improved. Today, civilians can freely interact with soldiers, and soldiers also relate well with civilians. We want this positive relationship to continue through the election period and beyond,” she said.

Another resident, Agness Moriba of Jigomoni area, commended Malimbo’s leadership, describing him as proactive and development-oriented.

“We are happy with the work he has done in promoting development, peace and security. We appeal to the governor to allow him to continue serving until a new county commissioner is elected and sworn in next year,” Moriba said.

Edmond Malish, a resident of Hai Gabat, also praised Malimbo for maintaining peace and security, stressing that a stable environment is essential for the successful conduct of elections.

“The people are tired of war and insecurity. We request the governor to give the former commissioner more time to lead Yei and ensure elections are conducted in a peaceful atmosphere,” he said.

The residents’ appeal comes amid ongoing political transitions in Central Equatoria State, with many expressing hope that continuity in local leadership will support development efforts, strengthen security, and create favorable conditions for the country’s anticipated elections in 2026.