South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Waure Eddy
The newly appointed Deputy Governor, Justin Joseph Marona, has pledged to serve all communities in Western Equatoria without bias, emphasising peace, reconciliation, and unity as his top priorities.
Upon his arrival in Yambio on Saturday, Marona was greeted with jubilation by state officials, traditional chiefs, youth representatives, women leaders, and hundreds of citizens. He urged everyone to set aside political affiliations and come together as one community in Western Equatoria and South Sudan as a whole.
“Today I am here in the state. I’m grateful for my appointment by the President. I’m committed to working with the voice of the people of WES across all community issues to ensure peace prevails for all,” Marona declared at the Yambio airstrip, visibly moved by the warm welcome.
“This reception today shows me that the people of Western Equatoria need peace above all else. As leaders, we are here to work for the people; without the people, no leaders can govern. We need to listen to our citizens,” he added.
Marona called on both citizens and leaders to put aside political differences and focus on healing the wounds of the past. “Let’s set aside party issues for now and prioritise saving our communities to achieve sustainable peace,” he said, eliciting applause from the crowd.
His arrival was marked by a vibrant cultural celebration, featuring traditional dancers from various tribes performing in unity—a symbolic gesture of the diversity and resilience of Western Equatoria’s people.
“I’m not here for myself alone,” he continued. “I’m here with my Governor, and we are committed to working closely to identify the root causes of the problems in the state.”
His remarks echoed President Kiir’s recent directive to the new leadership to prioritise peacebuilding and restore harmony in the state. Western Equatoria has experienced years of communal violence, displacement, and mistrust, particularly in areas like Tombura and parts of Yambio County.
As the new leadership takes root, citizens across the state are hopeful that this renewed partnership between Governor James Altaib Berapai and Deputy Governor Marona will herald a new era of stability and development.
Images from the reception showcased colourful attire, joyful dances, and heartfelt embraces—a testament to the community’s readiness to move forward together.
