Former Commissioner Turns Down appointment to State Legislative Assembly

By Awan Achiek

The former Commissioner of Kapoeta North County of Eastern Equatoria, Epone Emmanuel Lolimo has turned down his appointment to the State Legislative Assembly.

On 23 March, President Salva Kiir Mayardit sacked Epone Emmanuel Lolimo as Commissioner of Kapoeta North, after four years of service.

Lolimo was replaced by David Naye Lomor as the new Commissioner of Kapoeta North County.

In a letter addressed to the President seen on Saturday by The Dawn, Lolimo called on President Kiir to reinstate former lawmaker Simon Lodowong Machanyang.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude for considering me for this important position. After careful consideration and reflection, I have decided to decline the opportunity to serve as a member of the State Parliament at this time,” Lolimo said.

He expressed gratitude for the new position but said he would serve the party in a different capacity.

“While I am honoured by the offer, I believe Hon. Simon Lodowong Machanyang should be reinstated to his position as a member of the Eastern Equatoria State Legislative Assembly,” he said.

“I have weighed this decision thoughtfully and feel that it is in the best interest of both the great party SPLM and me to focus on my responsibilities and also continue serving our party at an individual capacity as a member of the party,” Lolimo wrote.

He stressed the need to reinstate former lawmaker Macharinyang who he believes is capable of serving the party and the people.

 “I am exceedingly aware of the trust and confidence placed in me by this offer. I am confident that Hon. Simon Lodowuon Macharinyang if reinstated, will continue to make significant contributions to the community,” Lolimo said.