John Henry Ngalamu was sworn in Friday as the new commissioner of Mundri East County in a ceremony led by Western Equatoria State’s acting Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa.
The appointment comes as Mundri East faces prolonged insecurity and displacement, with officials and residents urging reconciliation.
Acting Governor Rimbasa tasked Ngalamu with uniting divided communities and working closely with youth, women and traditional leaders in conflict-hit areas like Minga and Rokon.
“The people of Mundri need peace now more than ever,” Rimbasa said. “You must go immediately, serve all groups equally and prioritize unity.”
Ezo County Commissioner Abel Sudan, speaking on behalf of fellow commissioners at the swearing-in ceremony in Yambio, praised Ngalamu’s selection as a “wise choice for peace and service delivery.”
Silvestor Juma Tanga, a Mundri East representative, thanked President Salva Kiir for the appointment but stressed the need for Ngalamu to address divisions beyond the county’s borders.
Jeslina Pitia Benson, a Member of Parliament representing Mundri East, said the appointment could strengthen legislative collaboration, particularly in addressing displacement in Minga and Rokon.
Alfred Kunji, a local resident, expressed cautious optimism, urging Ngalamu to “focus on reconciliation.” Women’s leader Verse Sura called for communal support, saying, “Lasting peace requires all of us to work together.”
Ngalamu’s Pledge
Ngalamu, appointed by President Salva Kiir on May 21, succeeds Margaret Fozia Emmanuel.
A member of the ruling SPLM party, Ngalamu vowed to “deliver services, restore peace and ensure stability” but faces significant challenges in an area weary of conflict.