OPINION: New Governor, Old Problems: Leadership Test for Central Equatoria

On behalf of myself as a citizen of South Sudan, and a proud son of Central Equatoria in particular, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Your Excellency, General Rabi Munjung Emmanuel, on your recent appointment as Governor of Central Equatoria State by His Excellency the President.

This distinguished appointment reflects the profound trust and confidence placed in your leadership, patriotism and unwavering dedication to the people of Central Equatoria and South Sudan at large.

As you take on this vital role, we are confident that your experience and vision will usher in progress, peace, and prosperity. We wish you wisdom, strength, and success as you serve with integrity and commitment.

May your tenure be marked by unity, development, and impactful governance.

Congratulations once again, Your Excellency.

Your Excellency, Hon Governor,

Kindly allow me to extend warm greetings and the deepest appreciation from the team of the voiceless.

We write not with complaints, but with constructive recommendations, motivated by a profound sense of duty to our people and a shared vision for a peaceful, secure and dignified life for both the host community and the internally displaced persons (IDPs) who have sought refuge among us.

1. Urgent Need for Improved Security

Your Excellency, our communities continue to suffer due to insecurity manifested in armed ambushes, criminal activity, sporadic gunfire and the persistent fear of militia incursions.

We respectfully recommend:

Immediate deployment of disciplined, well trained government security forces to protect civilians and stabilise the area.

Formation of a joint security task force involving community leaders and law enforcement to monitor threats and foster trust.

Demobilisation and disarmament of illegal armed groups operating within affected communities.

Regular patrols along major roads and footpaths to ensure the safe movement of farmers, traders, students and humanitarian workers.

2. Consolidation of Service Delivery for Host and Displaced Populations

The influx of IDPs has placed significant strain on already limited services, including schools, health centres and food systems.

We urge your leadership to:

Strengthen local health facilities by deploying qualified medical personnel, providing essential medicines and offering operational support.

Reopen and support community schools, especially in areas recently resettled.

Ensure equitable distribution of humanitarian aid under government oversight to avoid exclusion or discrimination.

Collaborate with NGOs and faith based organisations to expand water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) programmes.

3. Economic Livelihoods and Infrastructure Support

Peace without bread is incomplete. We appeal to your office to:

Provide agricultural tools and inputs to farmers returning to cultivate their land.

Support rehabilitation of feeder roads to connect villages with markets and essential services.

Encourage small-scale livelihood projects, especially for youth and women impacted by displacement and conflict.

4. Restoration of Local Government Presence

Finally, we humbly request:

Re-establishment of local governance structures namely chiefs, administrators and Payam officials to ensure law and order, civic engagement and access to essential services.

With highest regards,
Taban Andrew John

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