Civil rights organization, Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), lauded Jadalla’s contribution to the state and nation and proposed a five-point agenda for the incoming governor

By Emmanuel Mandella

Former Governor of Central Equatoria State, Gen. Augustino Jadalla has officially extended his heartfelt gratitude to President Salva Kiir for the opportunity to serve, marking the end of his tenure with a tone of dignity, loyalty and statesmanship.

In a farewell statement dated June 17 obtained by The City Review, Gen. Jadalla expressed appreciation for the trust placed in him during a moment he described as a “critical period in South Sudan’s path to peace and development.” While refraining from highlighting specific policy achievements, Jadalla praised President Kiir’s vision and noted that a strong foundation has been laid for continued growth in Central Equatoria.

“I carried out my responsibilities with humility and a deep sense of duty. The people of Central Equatoria are resilient and ready for the next chapter under new leadership,” he said, expressing full confidence in his successor.

Jadalla also congratulated the newly appointed Governor, Lt. Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, pledging his full support and reaffirming his loyalty to the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM).

CEPO proposes a five-point agenda

In response, Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), lauded Jadalla’s contribution to the state and nation.

“With deep respect, I express my sincere gratitude to General Jadalla for his tireless efforts in promoting peace, security, and stability, we wish you every success in your next national assignment,” Yakani said.

At the same time, CEPO warmly welcomed Gen. Rabi Emmanuel and laid out a five-point agenda for the incoming governor, urging him to lead with purpose and consistency.

“Congratulations, Your Excellency, and welcome to this noble responsibility. we have full confidence in your ability to deliver on the trust bestowed upon you,” Yakani stated.

CEPO’s Five-Pillar Priority Guide for Gen. Rabi includes, Agricultural Conference to gather real farmers and stakeholders to design a roadmap for enhancing food production and tackling food insecurity in the state.

With tensions brewing between the National and State Revenue Authorities over personal income tax (PIT), CEPO urges harmonization of tax policies to ease burdens on traders and strengthen the business climate.

Mr. Yakani added that Security and Civilian Protection From road ambushes to intercommunal violence, the group calls on the new governor to bolster security frameworks and prioritize the safety of all civilians across the state and safety, security, and protection of returnees to be among the top priorities of the new governor.

Given Rabi’s background in security, CEPO wants him to spearhead the elimination of child soldier recruitment, turning Central Equatoria into a model state in line with the national action plan on children and armed conflict.

Furthermore, CEPO strongly advises against frequent reshuffling of county commissioners and ministers. “Strategic continuity is key to effective service delivery and public confidence,” Yakani added.

As the political winds shift in Central Equatoria, observers say Gen. Rabi Emmanuel steps into office with both great expectations and an opportunity to chart a transformative path forward. The next few months will be a test of leadership, vision, and the ability to unite state institutions around a shared goal of peace and progress.

“The people of Central Equatoria are watching and hopeful. It’s time to turn words into action,” a civil society activist said.

Central Equatoria State, home to the capital Juba, remains a pivotal bedrock in South Sudan’s political and economic future. The leadership transition comes amid broader national efforts to implement the peace agreement and prepare for long-awaited democratic elections.