The newly appointed speaker of the Western Equatoria State Legislative Assembly, Anna Tunna Richard, has pledged to unite lawmakers, strengthen security, and improve service delivery across the state.
Speaking Tuesday during her swearing-in ceremony in the state capital, Yambio, Tunna thanked outgoing Speaker Wakila and the previous assembly leadership for their resilience through four years of political and economic challenges.
“I pledge to build on the foundation laid by my predecessors,” she said. “I call on all honorable members to unite and foster cooperation so we can deliver on our constitutional mandate.”
Tunna, who is a member of the SPLM party, urged the state government to prioritize security in Tambura and Mundri East, ensure citizens’ freedom of movement, and implement policies that promote reconciliation and development.
She also appealed to Governor James Al-Taib Berapai to integrate civil servants from the defunct states of Tambura, Maridi, and Amadi, and to clear salary arrears for state employees.
“Restoring salaries and integrating civil servants will revive our state institutions and motivate our workforce,” she said.
Tunna also called for a harmonized tax system to reduce the burden on traders and citizens. She urged the government to return public and private land lost under the previous administration to rightful owners.
James Elisama Ngbangiayo, chief whip of the SPLM-IO representing Yambio County, welcomed the new leadership, saying the state expects “new strategies that were not seen in the last five years,” especially to address economic challenges.
Modir Martin Ngoromu, deputy chairperson for legal affairs and an SPLM lawmaker representing Maridi County, also congratulated the new speaker and expressed hope for peace and development under the current administration.
On behalf of civil society, activist Odetta Miwai called on the government to prioritize reconciliation and service delivery, particularly in conflict-affected areas.
“We understand that some lawmakers have been absent since former Governor Lt. Alfred Futuyo Karaba left,” she said. “The government should bring everyone on board to restore the system and deliver essential services like health and education.”