Badagbu to new officials: Focus on the public, deliver tangible results

By Emmanuel Mandella

Western Equatoria State has received a new set of leaders, following a recent reshuffle in the state. And the state Governor, Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa, had some advise: Focus on service delivery, improve livelihoods. 

While overseeing the swearing in of the new officials, Governor Badagbu called for unity, accountability and improved service delivery; marking a significant step toward strengthening governance and restoring public confidence.

The swearing-in ceremony, held at the State Secretariat in Yambio on Wednesday, brought together newly appointed state advisers, ministers, members of independent commissions, and county commissioners, signaling a fresh start for leadership across key sectors of the state government.

Among those who took oath were Minister of Finance and Planning Hon. Bakiki Simple John, Minister of Labour and Public Service Hon. Makuku Daniel Joseph, and the State Minister of Information and Communication, alongside newly appointed county commissioners from Nzara, Mvolo, and Nagero counties.

The ceremony also marked the official appointment of Vero Usini Nicolas as Commissioner of Nagero County, filling a leadership gap that had persisted for more than a year.

In his keynote address, Governor Rimbasa emphasized that the primary responsibility of the newly sworn-in officials is to serve the people diligently and deliver essential services effectively, warning against misuse of public office for personal or political gain.

“I appreciate our President, Salva Kiir Mayardit, for appointing ministers, county commissioners, and advisers. The leadership gaps have now been filled, and we expect dedication to service delivery across all levels,” Rimbasa said.

He urged the officials to prioritize the welfare of citizens, uphold unity across communities, and ensure accountability in all aspects of governance, noting that the success of his administration will be measured by tangible improvements in people’s lives.

The governor further stressed that unity among leaders and communities remains critical for stability and development in Western Equatoria State, especially at a time when citizens are looking to government institutions for solutions to pressing challenges such as service delivery, unemployment, and infrastructure gaps.

“Your responsibility is not to yourselves, but to the people. You must work together, remain united, and deliver services that respond to the needs of our citizens,” he added.

Governor Rimbasa’s remarks come amid growing expectations from residents who have long called for improved access to basic services, including healthcare, education, clean water, and economic opportunities.

On behalf of the newly appointed ministers, Hon. Makuku Daniel Joseph pledged commitment to working closely with communities to ensure development reaches all parts of the state.

“We are committed to delivering real services to our people and working hand in hand with communities to promote development and stability,” Makuku said.

He highlighted the importance of empowering youth and women through skills training and economic initiatives, warning that unemployment and lack of opportunities continue to expose young people to social and economic risks.

Meanwhile, the Speaker of the Western Equatoria State Legislative Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ann Tuna Richard, called for strong cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government to ensure effective governance and accountability.

“As Parliament, we call for maximum cooperation between the Executive and Legislature to ensure effective governance and improved service delivery for our people,” she said.

She further advised the new officials to remain humble in their leadership, work closely with technical staff, and maintain transparency in decision-making processes.

The swearing-in of the officials is seen as a crucial step in reinforcing governance structures in Western Equatoria State, particularly at the county level, where local leadership plays a vital role in delivering services and addressing community concerns.

Analysts note that filling key leadership positions, especially in counties such as Nagero, Nzara, and Mvolo, is expected to enhance coordination of government programs and improve response to local challenges.

The ceremony concluded with a strong call for teamwork, integrity, and commitment to public service, with leaders expressing optimism that the new administration will deliver meaningful change for the people of Western Equatoria State.

As the new officials assume office, residents across the state will be watching closely to see whether the renewed emphasis on unity and service delivery translates into tangible improvements in their daily lives.