Former Yambio Commissioner Urges Communities to Reject Division, Embrace Development Ahead of Elections

Former Yambio County Commissioner Hon. Mbiko Cephas Barakati has urged residents of Western Equatoria State, particularly Yambio County, to prioritize farming, peace, unity, and forgiveness as South Sudan prepares for the anticipated general elections.

Barakati made the appeal on Monday during the Good Morning Western Equatoria programme, shortly after picking up a nomination form to contest a seat in the National Parliament. He emphasized that agricultural production and peaceful coexistence are essential to improving livelihoods, promoting self-reliance, and advancing community development.

“The community should focus on farming because it is one of the key ways to promote development and sustain our families, especially at this critical moment when everyone is waiting for the elections,” Barakati said.

He also stressed that peace and stability are essential for sustainable development, urging residents to work with state and national authorities to prevent violence and maintain peaceful coexistence within their communities.

Barakati called on the people of Western Equatoria to reject hatred and violence, encouraging them to embrace dialogue, forgiveness, and cooperation as foundations for lasting peace.

He further appealed for unity among South Sudanese communities, urging citizens from different ethnic backgrounds to live together peacefully and work towards a common future.

“We need peace, unity, and forgiveness among our communities. We must learn to live together without hatred and work collectively for the future of our state and country,” he said.

On his parliamentary ambitions, Barakati pledged to work with the Western Equatoria State Legislative Assembly, relevant national institutions, and government ministries to address the needs and concerns of his constituents if elected.

“If I am elected as a member of the National Parliament by my people, I will work together with the state assembly, national institutions, and relevant ministries to deliver services to the community,” Barakati said.

He emphasized that parliamentary representation should be viewed as an opportunity to serve the public rather than a position of superiority over other leaders or citizens.

“Being a member of the National Parliament does not mean that you are above everyone else. It means working together as one people to deliver services and raise the concerns of the community,” he added.

Barakati said his parliamentary ambition was focused on representing the interests of Yambio County residents and ensuring their concerns receive attention during parliamentary deliberations.

He concluded by urging citizens, both within and outside their communities, to support peacebuilding initiatives and put the common good above political differences as the country approaches the anticipated elections.