Though the advocate’s tenure lasted barely six months, many observers say it was marked by decisive efforts to restore governance structures that had remained dormant for years.

By Emmanuel Mandella

Western Equatoria State has flipped another political chapter following the abrupt gubernatorial reshuffle that has seen Barrister James Al-Taib Jazz Berapai exit and former State Deputy Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimabasa make grand entry, this time as the governor.

The changes were announced through a presidential decree on Monday evening.

Barrister Al-Taib was appointed governor in August 2025, replacing Hon. Daniel Badagbu, who was acting in the position at the time. He inherited a state that was grappling with institutional paralysis, insecurity, and economic stagnation. Though his tenure lasted barely six months, many observers say it was marked by decisive efforts to restore governance structures that had remained dormant for years.

Unpacking key programs

Upon assuming office, Al-Taib prioritized the revival of the state government programs, which had struggled to function effectively amid prolonged political instability. One of his most notable achievements was spearheading the preparation and passage of the State’s budget for the FY 2025/2026, the first comprehensive state budget in nearly five years.

“This budget was not just a financial document; it was a signal that the state government was back on its feet, for years, we operated without clear fiscal direction,” said a senior civil servant in Yambio.

In the security sector, Al-Taib worked closely with state and national security organs to address long-standing conflict in hotspot areas, as his administration played a key role in restoring relative calm in Tombura and Mundri East counties, areas that had witnessed repeated inter-communal violence.

Perhaps most symbolically, the governor oversaw efforts that led to the reopening of the strategic road linking Tombura, Nagero, and Wau, a lifeline for trade, humanitarian access, and public transport that had remained cut off due to insecurity.

Following his relief on February 2, 2026, Al-Taib issued a formal thanking President Kiir and the leadership of the SPLM for entrusting him with the governorship.

“I served with dedication, respect for the rule of law, transparency, and accountability until my last day in office,” Al-Taib wrote, adding that he fully accepts the decision relieving him of his duties.

He welcomed the appointment of Hon. Daniel Badagbu Rimabasa as his successor, describing the transition as “a normal and democratic exercise within the SPLM,” and pledged continued loyalty to the party and the government.

“I remain a loyal and obedient member of our mighty SPLM party, ready to serve whenever called upon for any future national duty,” he stated.

What Next for Al-Taib?

With a strong background as former Head of the Legal Department in South Sudan, political analysts believe Al-Taib could be redeployed into a senior legal, advisory, or diplomatic role at the national level.

“Barrister Al-Taib’s calm approach, legal expertise, and acceptance of party decisions position him well for future assignments. In South Sudan politics, loyalty often precedes redeployment,” noted John Sabeko, a local political analyst based in Yambio.

The Return of Badagbu

Hon. Daniel Badagbu Rimabasa was former Deputy Governor and acting Governor of the State. [Photo: Courtesy]

The reappointment of Daniel Badagbu Rimabasa brings back a familiar figure to the state’s leadership. Between February and August 2025, Rimabasa served as Acting Governor of the state, a period during which he earned recognition for his reconciliation efforts.

During that time, he reportedly convinced more than 3,000 opposition members from both armed and political wings to rejoin the government, a move credited with easing tensions in several parts of the state.

“Governor Badagbu understands the security dynamics of Western Equatoria. He talks to people, including those in the bush,” said a community leader in Mundri.

However, as he resumes office, Rimabasa faces a challenging path. Key among the pressing challenges are; the presence of foreign cattle herders (commonly known as Ambororo), which has fueled land disputes and insecurity in several counties, serious liquidity hurdles that has crippled government operations and delayed payment of civil servants’ salaries, and persistent insecurity in pockets of the state.

Civil society groups say the new administration must balance security enforcement with dialogue.

“We expect Governor Rimbasa to prioritize protection of civilians, restore confidence in government institutions, and engage communities inclusively,” said Sarah Malinga, an activist based in Yambio.

While some residents welcome Rimbasa’s return, many citizens express growing frustration over what they describe as frequent changes of state leadership by the SPLM leadership in Juba, often within short periods.

“This constant reshuffling is hurting service delivery. Every new governor comes with plans, but before implementation starts, he is removed,” said Paulino Juma, a female local trader in Yambio open market.

Furthermore, civil society organizations warn that political instability at the top undermines development, discourages donor engagement, and weakens public trust.

“Western Equatoria needs policy continuity, not endless transitions, and the people judge leadership by results, not appointments,” said David Khamis, a representative of a local civil society network.

As Western Equatoria navigates yet another transition, residents say their expectations remain simple but urgent: security, salaries, roads, and basic services.

Whether Governor Rimabasa can consolidate peace, stabilize the economy, and restore public confidence while avoiding the fate of his predecessors will determine not only his legacy, but also the future trajectory of a state yearning for sustained stability and development.