Newly Sworn Western Equatoria Governor Tasked With Restoring Stability

(JUBA) – President Salva Kiir Mayardit has called on newly appointed leaders of Western Equatoria State to take decisive steps to restore peace, stability and social harmony in the state, which has been hit by recurring violence and insecurity.

Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony held at State House in Juba on Friday, 15 August 2025, the President told the new officials that the people of Western Equatoria are expecting swift and effective action to resolve ongoing tensions.

Governor James Altaib Berapai and Deputy Governor Justin Joseph Marona formally took their oaths of office during the event. Also sworn in were national officials, including Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation James Mawich Makuach and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning Yien Chan Ruei.

President Kiir directed Minister Mawich to make the supply of clean and safe drinking water a national priority. He stressed that cooperation among state and national leaders was essential, noting that the government could only meet citizens’ expectations if its officials worked together with focus and commitment.

Western Equatoria has in recent years experienced a rise in communal clashes, armed group activity, and the displacement of civilians. Humanitarian agencies say that thousands of people remain in need of assistance, while local leaders face pressure to address root causes of the violence, including land disputes and political tensions.

The President told the incoming leaders that their first task would be to restore the confidence of the population by ensuring security in both rural and urban areas. He urged them to lead with integrity and to prioritise reconciliation initiatives that could bridge divides between communities.

The new state leadership is expected to begin consultations with local chiefs, religious leaders and civil society groups to lay the groundwork for dialogue and recovery programmes.