Surprise Upset in Nyakuron Ballot
Delegates gathered inside Nyakuron Cultural Centre on Saturday delivered a shock result, handing 191 votes to Dada Isaac Lemi and only 102 to veteran MP Jacob Aligo Lo-Ladu, long considered the favourite for the Kakwa community chair.
Quiet applause replaced campaign drums as officials of the electoral board declared the outcome within minutes, underscoring the peaceful tone that has usually characterised community polls even as national elections remain pending in South Sudan.
Campaign Messages over Money
Observers said Lemi’s manifesto, centred on transparent finances and youth mentorship, resonated more than the logistical muscle of his rival.
“Our opponent invested money to convince the voters, but we won because we invested in ideas,” campaign coordinator Charles Mogga explained after the vote (SZN).
A Leadership Team Bridging Greater Yei
Lemi from Lainya, Secretary General-elect Sebit Nicolas of Yei, and Finance Secretary-elect Joyce Yobu of Morobo knit together the three counties that shape Greater Yei, offering geographic balance rarely achieved in past committees.
Analysts believe the trio’s professional mix—administration, civil society and finance—could streamline diaspora remittances directed at education, health and cultural festivals over the next four-year mandate.
Symbolism for South Sudan’s Democratic Future
Since independence in 2011 the country has yet to stage national polls, making community elections an informal barometer of democratic readiness.
Political scientist Dr. Helen Lokiru argues the Kakwa ballot shows citizens value accountability and generational renewal when offered a credible platform, signalling optimism ahead of the long-anticipated national vote.
For now, the spotlight remains on Lemi, who begins consultations this week with elders in Juba, Yei and Arua to set priorities that, he insists, must honour tradition while opening doors for tech-savvy youth.