The newly appointed governor of Western Equatoria state, James Al Taib Berapai, on Thursday wrapped up a two-day consultation with county commissioners aimed at strengthening coordination between the state government and local administrations.
The meetings, held at the state secretariat in Yambio, brought together eight of the state’s 10 county commissioners. One commissioner was absent due to medical treatment in Juba, while the commissioner of Nagero County was reported absent following a defection.
Governor Al Taib said peace and security remain top priorities for his administration and urged local officials to work closely with the state government to promote stability across the region.
“The consultations allowed us to familiarize ourselves with the counties and hear directly from the commissioners,” he said. “We reviewed reports, including security updates, and discussed ways to work together for the good of our people.”
Speaking on behalf of the commissioners, Mundri West County Commissioner Zelipha Justin Dawa welcomed the engagement and underscored the importance of relaying messages of peace to local communities.
“We could not return to our counties without messages from the new leadership,” she said. “These messages are vital, and we will share them with our people.”
Dawa said the meeting also conveyed a message from President Salva Kiir, urging communities to embrace peace and social cohesion.
“Those holding weapons should lay them down and return home,” she said. “It is time to embrace peace and work together to build a stable and secure Western Equatoria.”