The President emphasized the unique role of Central Equatoria State—home to the nation’s capital—as a symbol of national identity and a barometer of national stability.

By Aguok Chok and Anak Dut

In a moment that marked both continuity and renewed resolve, President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Wednesday presided over the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed Governor of Central Equatoria State, Hon. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, issuing a clarion call for integrity, equity, and unity in leadership.

Speaking from the State House in Juba, President Kiir offered both a charge and a challenge: to lead with unwavering moral clarity, serve all communities without bias, and safeguard peace in the heart of the Republic.

“You must lead with integrity and fairness,” the President said with measured authority. “Let national unity be the shield that guides your decisions. The people of Central Equatoria, especially in Juba, are counting on you to be a leader who brings people together.”

Guarding the Heart of the Nation

The President emphasized the unique role of Central Equatoria—home to the nation’s capital—as a symbol of national identity and a barometer of national stability.

“Juba is the mirror through which the world sees South Sudan,” Kiir stated. “That is why we must ensure it is a place of peace, order, and prosperity.”

Among the key priorities he outlined were security, infrastructure development, equitable land management, and social cohesion. With particular concern, the President decried the growing menace of land grabbing in and around Juba, calling it a threat to harmony and progress.

“You must ensure equitable distribution of land to accommodate Juba’s fast-growing population and to pave the way for orderly development,” he said. “Land must be reserved not only for housing, but also for investment and government services. We must reject land grabbing, which only sows discord among communities.”

A Vision for Unity and Growth

President Kiir’s remarks reflected his long-standing emphasis on nation-building through inclusive leadership. In a nation with diverse ethnic identities and historic divisions, the President called for reconciliation, warning against the dangers of ethnic polarization.

“We must embrace one another,” he urged. “Our development as a country depends on our ability to live and work together.”

Turning to the state’s dilapidated infrastructure, Kiir issued a strong directive to prioritize the rehabilitation of roads and public facilities. “Without good roads and essential services, development cannot reach our people,” he said. “Rebuilding Juba’s infrastructure is not a luxury—it is a necessity.”

Governor Mujung Responds

In his maiden remarks after taking the oath of office, Governor Rabi Mujung Emmanuel pledged his loyalty to the vision laid out by the President and reaffirmed his commitment to transformative leadership.

“I stand ready to serve the people of Central Equatoria with transparency and dedication,” Mujung said. “I will work hand-in-hand with all arms of government, the security forces, and our communities to implement the President’s directives and usher in an era of peace, prosperity, and development.”

Acknowledging the formidable challenges ahead—including land disputes, youth unemployment, and persistent insecurity—Governor Mujung emphasized the need for a development-first approach as a remedy to instability.

“It is my firm belief that insecurity in our state is driven not just by politics but by unemployment and underdevelopment,” he stated. “These are two issues I will tackle head-on.”

A Dignified Transition, A Call to Service

Earlier in the day, outgoing Governor Emmanuel Adil’s representative handed over power in a peaceful and respectful ceremony that symbolized institutional maturity and democratic progress. Governor Mujung praised the smooth transition and called for continued collaboration.

He laid out a broad vision encompassing health, education, infrastructure, and youth empowerment, while urging partnerships with investors and development agencies. “We cannot rely solely on taxes. We must think boldly and bring together our local and international partners to transform Central Equatoria,” he said.

Mujung also pledged to uphold financial discipline, promising not to tolerate corruption in service delivery. “We must never normalize corruption. Our people deserve better, and so do our development partners who place their trust in us,” he added.

Looking to 2026 and Beyond

As South Sudan moves toward the 2026 elections and deepens its democratic roots, President Kiir’s call for principled, people-centered governance sends a clear message: the time for empty promises is over.

The spotlight is now firmly on Governor Mujung to translate the President’s words into tangible results. For the people of Central Equatoria, and indeed the nation, hope now rests in the strength of leadership—and in the power of unity guided by integrity.