The governor of Lakes State has warned newly appointed officials against abuses and misuse of power, publicly reminding some returning officials of allegations of past misconduct as he swore them into office.
Governor Madhang Majok Meen issued the warning on Monday as he inaugurated six state ministers, three county commissioners and the head of an independent commission in the state capital, Rumbek.
Majok told the officials that government positions were temporary and that they would be judged by how they used their authority to serve the public.
“We are not permanent. We have to concentrate and not betray our people of South Sudan … and the people of Lakes State in particular,” Majok said.
His remarks took a notably sharper tone when he addressed officials who had previously served in the state administration.
Majok singled out newly appointed Rumbek North Commissioner Biliu Awuol, urging him not to repeat what the governor described as past abuses, including an allegation that he had ordered a person’s mouth to be burned with firewood during his previous tenure.
“This government does not want such inhumane torture and brutality in Lakes State,” Majok said.
He also named former Rumbek East Commissioner Mapuor Malek, urging him to correct past mistakes and avoid atrocities against civilians.
In May, Majok established committees to mediate longstanding traditional disputes involving communities across the state.
Majok said ministers would be responsible for development and public services, while commissioners would have a central role in security and local administration.
“You need to give services to your people and strengthen yourself to build your leadership at the grassroots level,” he said.
“There is nobody who is my friend and nobody among you who is my favourite,” he said. “You need to give services to your people.”
Awuol, who has returned as commissioner of Rumbek North, pledged to focus on security, dialogue and reconciliation.
“The journey ahead requires focus, and my promise to you is that I want the people of Rumbek North to improve their security,” he said, adding that he would work to ensure residents could live without fear.
The new appointments come months after President Salva Kiir replaced the previous Lakes State governor, Rin Tueny Mabor, with Majok in a January reshuffle. Majok was subsequently sworn in as governor in February.
Information and Communication Minister Refael Bang Mayor said the new cabinet would continue the work of the officials it replaced, but acknowledged that residents expect tangible improvements.
“We want our state to be peaceful, stable and prosperous,” Bang said. “We have come here to serve the people in terms of service delivery.”
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