The residents of Western Equatoria State have urged the newly appointed governor, Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa, to prioritize peace and security to restore free movement, farming, and business activities across the state.
The appeal was made on Wednesday during the governor’s official reception held at Yambio Freedom Square. Community members, youth representatives, women leaders, and state officials expressed hope that the new administration will address the persistent insecurity that has disrupted livelihoods in many parts of the state.
Residents said years of violence, looting, and sporadic gunfire have made it difficult for farmers to access their land and traders to move goods freely.
As a result, agricultural production and local trade have significantly declined.
A community leader who requested anonymity welcomed the governor’s appointment but emphasized the need for inclusive leadership and protection of civilians.
“Our governor should be close to the youth, women, and all groups in the community,” he stated. “Security must stabilize so that movement can be facilitated and people can live well.”
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj, Simon Sunge, a youth from Yambio County, said the people are hopeful but expect urgent action to address insecurity in areas such as Gangura, Bazungua, Lii Rangu, and other payams.
“We are happy to receive the new governor, but what we need now is peace and unity,” he said. “People cannot farm freely because of fear. We are tired of looting, attacks, and gunshots.”
Saluwa Korna, a woman’s representative, also called for immediate efforts to end violence, saying communities are exhausted by repeated attacks and loss of lives.
“People are dying, and our children cannot easily go to school,” she said. “We need peace and safe access to our farms.”
Meanwhile, Ann Tuna Richard, the Speaker of the Western Equatoria State Legislative Assembly, stressed that peace and security must remain the government’s top agenda.
Addressing the gathering, she noted that without stability, citizens cannot engage in agriculture, which is essential for food security and economic survival. She further urged residents to avoid tribalism and hate speech and instead work together to build unity and lasting peace.
On his part, Bangasi Joseph Bakosoro, the former presidential affairs minister, urged the governor to collaborate closely with security forces, including the police and the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), and to listen carefully to community concerns.
Western Equatoria State has faced intermittent insecurity in recent years, affecting farming, trade, and social services.
However, residents say they remain hopeful that under Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa’s leadership, stability will be restored and development will resume across the state.