South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Jenifer James
Hundreds of residents in Western Bahr el Ghazal State on Monday welcomed Emmanuel Primo Ukelo, the newly appointed Governor of the State.
The celebratory gathering marked a moment of optimism for the State, which had been anticipating fresh leadership after the removal of the former Governor Sarah Celato.
In his address at Wau stadium, Governor Ukelo outlined his vision for the state, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and collaboration.
“As a representative of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In Opposition (SPLM-IO) and governor of this state, I am committed to ensuring that all political parties have the freedom to conduct their activities across the state,” Ukelo said.
Ukelo disclosed improving security remains among his top priorities, stressing the need for unity across ethnic lines.
“We must work together to eliminate discrimination and build one Western Bahr el Ghazal State,” he stated.
He assured residents that public services would be distributed equitably and pledged to continue the developmental initiatives started by his predecessor.
Ukelo further committed to supporting the second phase of training of the unified security forces in the State.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Governor of Lakes State, Isaiah Akol, called for unwavering support for the 2018 revitalized peace agreement.
“The peace signed between the President and the First Vice President is genuine. We must not allow anyone to disrupt it. Cooperation is key to maintaining peace in Wau, which serves as the heart of the Bahr el Ghazal region,” he said.
However, the Deputy Governor of Western Bahr El Ghazal State, Zacharia Joseph Garang, pledged to work with Ukelo to being development to the State.
“We will continue the same level of cooperation we had with the former governor,” Garang said.
Chairperson of the Women’s Union in Western Bahr El Ghazal State, Bahadi Mohamed, urged Ukelo to prioritize gender equality and implement the 35% affirmative action policy for women representation. “We ask you to end violence against women and girls and ensure the full representation of women in leadership,” Mohamed said.
