Historic Election of Ahou Abit Ruth
Twic East County, Jonglei State, witnessed a milestone as community delegates elected and swore in Ahou Abit Ruth Muka to chair Nyiir Cit Arialbek, a women-led association. Observers framed the peaceful vote as a turning point for inclusive leadership.
In her first address, Muka said she accepted the post ‘not as a privilege but as a calling to serve with integrity’ (local media). Her phrasing underlined a generational shift, yet she acknowledged continuity by saluting outgoing chair Hon. Adut Mamer Ayach.
Four-Pillar Agenda for Empowerment
Muka outlined a four-pillar roadmap: expand scholarships and mentorship, stimulate women-led enterprise, intensify health advocacy, and protect cultural heritage. She argued that educated, economically stable and healthy women ‘become engines of community resilience’.
Although the campaign had multiple contenders, Muka publicly praised her rivals, calling their participation ‘grace in competition and honor in unity.’ Analysts noted that such rhetoric could ease factional tensions often linked to local elections.
Regional and Diaspora Support
The swearing-in, attended by former deputy finance minister Dr. Majak D’Agoot Atem, drew guests from Bor, Mangalla, Europe and Australia. Diaspora groups pledged logistical backing, while local chiefs applauded the association’s track record on conflict mediation.
Muka signaled intentions to collaborate with BCYA, Nyiir Lowai, DCYA and Duk Flower Girls on skills clinics and advocacy campaigns. Observers say such coalitions could pool scarce resources in Jonglei State, where flooding and insecurity strain budgets.
Path Ahead for Nyiir Cit Arialbek
Established to champion women’s education and economic inclusion, Nyiir Cit Arialbek now counts chapters across East Africa and the diaspora. The new chair’s success will hinge on sustaining donor confidence and translating policy speeches into measurable projects.
For many in Twic East, Muka’s rise symbolises an expanding civic space for women. As one elder observed, ‘When our daughters lead, horizons widen.’ Whether the four-pillar agenda delivers tangible gains will shape local perceptions of female leadership.