South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Waure Eddy
After nearly six months without a substantive governor, Western Equatoria State now has a new leader. H.E. Barrister James Altaib has been appointed governor through a presidential decree by H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, igniting optimism and a warm reception from citizens across the state.
This announcement marks the end of a leadership vacuum that began with the dismissal of former Governor Alfred Futuyo Karaba on February 10, 2025.
The streets of Yambio were filled with cautious optimism as The Dawn conducted interviews both in person and online, gathering perspectives from counties including Tambura, Maridi, Mvolo, Mundri, and Yambio.
While reactions varied, a common theme emerged: citizens are calling for peace, unity, and improved security under the new leadership.
Altaib, a prominent lawyer and member of the ruling SPLM party, is viewed by many as a local figure who understands the complexities of the region and its people.
His appointment has rekindled hope for reconciliation and development in a state that has endured intermittent violence, displacement, and deteriorating infrastructure.
Fozia Abbas Barnaba, a women’s leader from Yambio, stated, “We women are relieved. The state has been leaderless for too long. We urge Governor Altaib to prioritise resolving the Tambura crisis and to protect women and children, who suffer the most in conflict.”
Beneth William Bazia, a youth representative from Maridi, expressed, “We are very excited. We want him to unite the youth and calm the insecurity. Western Equatoria is rife with inter-conflict, and we need a leader who brings people together.”
Suzan Mario from Mundri said, “I hope the new governor listens to women’s voices. We need peace in our markets, schools, and roads. Let him be a governor for all tribes, not just one.”
Grace Aniue from Tambura remarked, “We are tired of hiding in IDP camps. Let Altaib come and see our suffering. We want peace and freedom of movement.”
Joseph Apai Arkangelo, a youth from Yambio, noted, “With his vast experience in the legal field, His Excellency is uniquely positioned to lead the people of WES. We need him to bring all people together without discrimination.”
Mal Mabor, a youth from Mvolo County, added, “We want a governor who brings peace not just in words, but in action. We need to move freely from Mvolo to Tambura without fear.”
“Let this leadership unite all tribes. We are tired of divisions. We are one people, and we deserve to live together as we did before. The new governor must listen to youth voices. We are ready to build, but we need a peaceful
foundation,” stated Heneri Emmanuel from Ezo County.
“Peace is not a luxury; it’s a right. We want to walk from county to county without checkpoints or suspicion.”
“Unity among tribes is key to development. If we’re divided, we can’t grow. We hope the new governor will be a bridge, not a barrier. Let him bring people together, not push them apart.”
The citizens of Western Equatoria State appreciate the President of the Republic of South Sudan for transitioning the state from SPLM-IO back to SPLM. The leadership of IO in the state has resulted in the loss of countless lives and the displacement of innocent people.
