By Yiep Joseph
The Deputy Governor of Central Equatoria State (CES), Paulino Lukudu Obede, visited Lokiliri Payam to assess the ongoing road opening as well as other developmental projects.
According to the statement extended to the media, the Friday visit is part of the government’s efforts to ensure peace and development in the state and South Sudan at large.
In line with close supervision aimed at speeding up the ongoing development, the deputy governor visited some of the sites within the payam.
While addressing residents in Lokiliri, Lukudu applauded the community leaders as well as the authorities in Juba County for their cooperation in fostering peace and unity.
He reassured residents that the compensation process for Hai Game in Juba City Council is nearing completion, affirming that his office upholds a strict policy of zero tolerance for corruption.
The deputy governor vowed to ensure that the rightful beneficiaries must receive their compensation without interference or malpractice.
Lukudu revealed that due to government commitment, the suspect behind the five abducted children from Lokiliri Payam was apprehended in the neighboring Greater Pibor Administrative Area.
He added that efforts are underway to ensure the safe reunification of the children with their families.
The deputy governor acknowledged Lokiliri Payam as a potential hub for investment and development.
He encouraged families resettled from Hai Game to view the area not merely as a relocation site but as a new home filled with opportunities for growth, modernization, and prosperity.
On his part, Loen Abe Brown, Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Agency, applauded the community for embracing government development plans.
He pledged continued commitment to strengthening peace, rule of law, and service delivery, emphasizing that infrastructure projects will attract investors and create jobs for the youth.
Emmanuel Tete Ezbon, Commissioner of Juba County, reaffirmed the readiness of his office to deliver services, enhance security, and sustain development. He urged continued cooperation between the people and government to ensure smooth implementation of projects.
His Worship Juma Moses Michael, Deputy Mayor for Infrastructure and Environment, acknowledged challenges faced in opening roads in Lokiliri but confirmed that Juba City Council has made significant progress.
He assured residents that compensation tokens will be carefully verified to guarantee they reach the rightful recipients.
Local leaders, including the Director of Rajaf Payam and the Executive Chief of Lokiliri, welcomed the high-level delegation with open hands.
They pledged their full cooperation with government initiatives and called for the prioritization of schools, health facilities, clean water, and improved security services to uplift livelihoods in the Payam.
Following the community meeting, the deputy governor and his delegation toured newly opened roads and inspected areas earmarked for further demarcation and investment.
On their return journey, the delegation made a stop at Motala, Sector Two Division, where Paulino Lukudu Obede issued a directive to the security forces, urging them to desist from unauthorized road openings.
He stressed that all development activities must be carried out in close coordination with local authorities to safeguard the interests of the people.
The Commissioner of Juba County reinforced this instruction, while the Sector Two Commander pledged full cooperation with the State Government and commitment to law and order.
The visit concluded with resounding messages of peace, security, and development. The Deputy Governor reiterated the State Government’s pledge to deliver services that transform lives, attract investments, and create lasting opportunities for the people of Central Equatoria State.
According to the statement, the deputy governor was accompanied by Hon. Loen Abe Brown, State Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Agency; Hon. Nyasuk Patrick James, State Minister of Information; Hon. Emmanuel Tete Ezbon, Commissioner of Juba County; and His Worship Juma Moses Michael, Deputy Mayor for Infrastructure and Environment.