By Jacob Onuha Nelson
The Governor of Central Equatoria State (CES), Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, has called for strengthened collaboration between government institutions, citizens, and the Church leadership in addressing challenges.
According to the statement obtained from the governor’s press unit, the Mujung called on the congregation to advance peace, unity, and security in the state.
The Governor made a visit on Sunday at St. Joseph Parish, where he shared a word of peace with the congregation.
He appealed to the Christians to pray for an end to the issue of land grabbing, rising suicide, and the continued presence of holdout groups in certain areas.
The statement further emphasized that the state government is committed to ensuring peace and resolving the issues faced by the state.
He cited that these challenges can only be tackled through coordinated efforts between security agencies and the community at large.
“The government is doing its best to ensure that peace and security are restored. With peace and security, it becomes easier to foster rapid development in the state,” the statement read in part.
The statement calls for unity and further noted that harmony in Central Equatoria State can reflect unity among all South Sudanese, given its status as the hosting state.
It exclaimed that the governor reaffirmed his administration’s support for local peace initiatives that promote reconciliation, forgiveness, and open dialogue with groups still outside the peace process.
According to the statement, the governor also acknowledged the Church’s historic role in the country’s liberation struggle and urged the continued partnership to spread the messages of peace, unity, and social cohesion. Adding that religious leaders should remain vocal in guiding communities away from violence and division.
In response, the statement stated that His Lordship Santo Laku Pio, the Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Juba, ministered the service call for humility, adding that they can succeed in their calling if they understand that they’re the servants of the Lord.
In his part, Christopher Sarafino Wani, Juba City Mayor, echoed similar sentiments, appealing to citizens to join efforts in maintaining cleanliness and order in the capital.
“Peace, love, and unity is the message I want to share,” Mayor Sarafino said in a statement. “Only through unity and cooperation can we move our city forward. Stand with us in action as we strive to keep Juba clean.”
The statement stated that Sunday Service was attended by several senior national officials, including Hon. Dr. Benjamin Baak Deng, the Chief Justice; Hon. Sarah Cleto, Minister of Health; and Hon. Onyoti Adigo, Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, among others.
Moreover, it stated that the Governor was accompanied by senior State officials, including Hon. Lupai Satimon, Minister of Cabinet Affairs; Hon. Jacob Aligo Lo-Lado, Minister of Peace Building; Hon. David Morbe, Minister of Housing, Lands, and Public Utilities; and Hon. Emmanuel Tete Ezbon, Commissioner of Juba County.
Central Equatoria State faces challenges including widespread insecurity from land and cattle disputes, illegal logging, and conflict-related violence, leading to displacement and food insecurity.