SPLM gubernatorial aspirant Hastin Yokwe Anisio has criticised the leadership of South Sudan’s Central Equatoria State, blaming it for poor service delivery and stalled development, and pledging reforms if elected governor.
Anisio made the remarks in Juba on Thursday while declaring his candidacy, saying the state needs leadership focused on improving public services, creating jobs and promoting unity.
He is among about six members of the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) seeking the governorship, as competition for the position grows ahead of the party’s primaries.
“I stand to contest this election to give you a new direction,” Anisio said. “I stand before you not only to declare a political ambition, but to declare my candidacy for the governance of Central Equatoria State to offer our citizens a new chapter of service at this difficult moment.”
He said the election would give voters a choice between retaining the current leadership and pursuing a different approach to governance.
Anisio pledged to strengthen the civil service, improve the capacity of government institutions and establish minimum standards for public services, particularly in the health sector.
“My policy for the Ministry of Health will be to set a minimum standard of health service in our country,” he said, referring to public hospitals and primary healthcare facilities across the state.
He also pledged to expand employment opportunities for young people and promote unity among the state’s diverse communities.
Anisio cited his previous public service experience, including work with the Southern Sudan Anti-Corruption Commission and service in the Central Equatoria State Legislative Assembly, where he served as a member and deputy speaker.
He also served as state minister of education, minister of cabinet and parliamentary affairs, and adviser to the governor on governance.
Anisio holds a master’s degree in national development from the United Kingdom and studied public administration at the University of Juba.
The SPLM is expected to hold internal elections to select party leaders in South Sudan’s 10 states and three administrative areas. The outcome of the party’s internal process is expected to shape its candidates for state governorships.
and then