By Lodu William Odiya
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has sworn in five caretaker governors and one chief administrator, directing them to carry out their constitutional mandate impartially and responsibly throughout the election period.
According to the presidential press unit, those sworn in are Louis Lobong Lojore, Caretaker Governor of Eastern Equatoria State; Charles Dut Akol, Caretaker Governor of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State; Dr. Joseph Nguen Monytuil, Caretaker Governor of Unity State; Bol Wek Agoth, Caretaker Governor of Warrap State; James Koang Chuol, Caretaker Governor of Upper Nile State; and Charles Abyei Jok, Chief Administrator of the Abyei Special Administrative Area.
Friday’s ceremony marked the second part of the swearing-in process that began two days ago. With its completion, all caretaker governors and chief administrators have now been formally sworn in and are expected to report immediately to their respective areas to discharge the responsibilities entrusted to them by the president.
“President Kiir tasked the newly appointed leaders with executing the mandate of the caretaker administrations in accordance with the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan and the laws governing the election period,” the statement partly read.
He urged them to maintain peace and stability, unite communities, and create a secure and conducive environment for the conduct of the December elections.
Under the requirements governing the caretaker period, all serving officials must remain impartial and must not use public office, public resources, or government institutions to promote or disadvantage any political party, candidate, or electoral contestant.
Officials serving in caretaker positions were also prohibited from contesting for any elective office.
“The President called on the officials to perform their duties with courage, diligence, and professionalism while ensuring that government institutions serve all citizens equally throughout the electoral process,” the statement continued.
President Kiir further pledged the government’s support and the necessary resources to facilitate the successful conduct of the elections, emphasising that the people of South Sudan must be allowed to choose their leaders freely through a democratic process.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Eastern Equatoria State Caretaker Governor Louis Lobong Lojore thanked President Kiir for entrusting them with the responsibility of serving the country and its people.
Lobong pledged that the caretaker administrations would cooperate fully with the National Elections Commission to ensure the timely and successful conduct of the polls.
He also committed the state and administrative-area leadership to creating a level playing field in which all political parties and candidates can conduct their campaigns peacefully.
The completion of the swearing-in process marks another historic milestone in an important week for South Sudan.
It follows the dissolution of the transitional government, the establishment of the caretaker administration, and the continued advancement of the country’s electoral roadmap, further paving the way for South Sudan’s elections in December 2026.