By Emmanuel Mandella

The SPLM Secretariat of Western Equatoria State is gearing up to officially welcome newly appointed Deputy Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa, who also took the oath of office as the state’s SPLM party chairperson.

Despite the excitement surrounding his new roles, Badagbu’s packed schedule has delayed his swearing-in as state SPLM chairperson, raising questions as to when he will formally take on the party leadership role.

Ann Tunna Richard, Assistant Secretary for Information at the SPLM State Secretariat, extended a warm congratulatory message to Badagbu, celebrating his new responsibilities.

“On behalf of the SPLM State Secretariat, I take this opportunity to congratulate you, Comrade Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa, on your swearing-in as our SPLM State Chairperson,” she expressed, further pledging the party’s full support.

Daniel Badagbu’s leadership marks a significant transition in the SPLM leadership landscape of Western Equatoria. He steps into the shoes of former SPLM chairpersons who have left notable legacies. Dr. Kennedy Gaaniko Baime, who served as SPLM chairperson for over four years, is credited for strengthening the party’s grassroots engagement and unity during his tenure. He was succeeded by Elia Richard Box, who briefly held the position before being removed through a Republican Decree. Despite his short tenure, Elia is remembered for his quick efforts to address party reorganization, although he had limited time to implement comprehensive changes.

As Badagbu takes the helm, his leadership is expected to chart new directions for the SPLM in Western Equatoria.

“We are ready to welcome you to the state and committed to providing the support you need to lead the SPLM Party to greater heights in Western Equatoria State,” Ann Tunna added.

The SPLM State Secretariat has promised to organize a reception for Badagbu, on date yet to be confirmed, marking the official commencement of his duties in the state. The delay in his swearing-in as chairperson has heightened the anticipation of his leadership, seen as a crucial moment for the future of the party in the state.

On Wednesday last week, Bagdabu paid a courtesy visit to the Vice President and Chair of the Economic Cluster Services Dr. James Wani Igga, in what observers saw as a move to strengthen political ties and seek high-level support as he embarks on his new role in Western Equatoria.

During the meeting, Badagbu expressed his desire to engage with the party leadership and align his efforts with the government’s broader objectives for peace and development in the state.

In his remarks, Dr. Igga congratulated the deputy governor on his new appointment and praised his loyalty to the party. “Your dedication to the party and your readiness to take on this assignment at the state level is commendable,” said Igga. “The top leadership is fully behind you, and we will work together to ensure peace, unity, and harmony in Western Equatoria.”

Badagbu has pledged to work closely with state and national leaders to address key challenges facing the state. The Vice President’s assurance of top-level support is expected to play a significant role in Badagbu’s efforts to promote unity and development in Western Equatoria.

“I am ready to serve the people of Western Equatoria with all my strength and to ensure that the ideals of peace and development are realized,” Badagbu stated after the meeting.