Fresh Mandate in Yambio
Cheers echoed across Yambio airstrip as Deputy Governor Justin Joseph Marona touched down, launching a tenure he vows will heal Western Equatoria State beyond party lines.
The former lawmaker thanked President Salva Kiir for the confidence shown, promising to translate the national call for reconciliation into practical programmes reaching the most remote villages.
Community Voices on Unity
Traditional drummers and dancers from Zande, Balanda and other ethnic groups escorted his convoy, a sight observers read as grassroots approval for unity after years of sporadic violence.
Marona told the crowd, “Without citizens no leader survives,” urging rivals to shelve political branding until basic security, agriculture and schooling resume normal rhythms.
Challenges to Peacebuilding in WES
Analysts in Juba say the deputy governor’s conciliatory language mirrors Kiir’s directive that Western Equatoria must stabilise quickly to unlock stalled investment in coffee, timber and inter-state trade.
However, humanitarian actors caution that disarmament, justice for past atrocities and the safe return of displaced families remain prerequisites for any durable calm across Tombura and Yambio counties.
Outlook for Inclusive Governance
Governor James Altaib Berapai has pledged to work “shoulder to shoulder” with his deputy, creating a joint committee to trace root causes of conflict and monitor communal dialogue forums.
If the partnership endures, residents hope colorful receptions like Saturday’s will grow into routine harvest festivals, signalling that Western Equatoria’s mosaic of cultures has finally reclaimed its shared future.