By Jackson Gaaniko Mathew
The chairperson of independent commissions in Western Equatoria State (WES), Margret Fozia Emmanuel, has raised security and human rights concerns in the state.
The commissioner raised the concern during a meeting with WES Governor Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa.
The two discussed pressing issues affecting communities, including security concerns linked to Ambororo pastoralists, human rights violations, and challenges in humanitarian access.
The delegation said the visit was also meant to congratulate the governor on his appointment and to brief him on the mandates and ongoing work of the commissions across the state.
Speaking after the meeting, the chairperson, who heads the Human Rights Commission and coordinates the Independent Commission Cluster, said the teams had presented detailed reports and work plans, including plans to conduct field visits across counties to assess conditions on the ground.
She said one of the major concerns raised was the continued presence of Ambororo pastoralists in parts of the state, which has been associated with insecurity, land disputes, and alleged human rights violations affecting local communities.
According to her, the Human Rights Commission is continuing to document reported violations across counties while working to ensure the protection of civilians’ rights.
The Relief and Rehabilitation Commission also reported ongoing efforts to improve humanitarian coordination and ensure aid reaches vulnerable populations, including internally displaced persons, despite persistent access challenges in some areas.
The meeting further highlighted plans to strengthen HIV prevention efforts at the community level through the revitalization of the strategy.
On governance issues, the Anti-Corruption Commission said it is working to address corruption within public institutions and promote transparency and accountability, while the Employees Justice Chamber raised concerns over challenges in civil service integration and equal employment opportunities.
She also noted that a joint fact-finding mission will soon be conducted to Iba in Mundri East County following recent incidents of violence.
The mission, involving multiple commissions, will also engage authorities and communities from Central Equatoria to promote dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
She added that the commissions continue to face operational challenges, particularly inadequate office infrastructure and limited resources, which affect their effectiveness.
In response, Governor Rimbasa welcomed the delegation and commended the commissions for their role in promoting accountability, human rights, and service delivery.
He acknowledged the concerns raised, including insecurity, humanitarian constraints, and institutional capacity gaps, and assured the officials of his government’s commitment to addressing them as resources allow.
The governor also endorsed the planned fact-finding mission to Mundri East and emphasised the importance of inter-community dialogue to foster lasting peace and stability.
He called on the commissions to continue working closely with grassroots communities to promote unity, peaceful coexistence, and respect for human rights across Western Equatoria State.