By Sabri Dibaco
The Deputy Governor of Western Equatoria State, Justin Joseph Marona, has called on all organised forces in the state to uphold their constitutional mandate by protecting civilians and their property, warning security personnel against committing violence against the people they are sworn to serve.
Speaking on Monday during a promotion ceremony for 71 Civil Defense officers in Yambio, Marona congratulated the officers for their commitment, resilience, and years of dedicated service, describing their promotions as recognition of their sacrifice.
“I want to appreciate you for being calm for so long, working hard day and night. Today you have been promoted from one rank to another. As the deputy governor, I thank you for your resilience, sacrifice, and dedication,” Marona said.
Among those promoted was Brigadier General Henry Malesh, who was elevated from the rank of Colonel to Brigadier General. He has served as the director of civil defense in Western Equatoria State for years.
Marona also expressed gratitude to President Salva Kiir Mayardit for recognising members of the Civil Defense through the promotions, saying the move would boost the morale of the organised forces.
The Deputy Governor praised the security forces for helping maintain relative peace in Western Equatoria despite ongoing security challenges.
“I appreciate all the organised forces for working day and night to protect the territorial integrity of Western Equatoria State. It is because of your hard work that the state is experiencing relative peace,” he explained.
However, Marona reminded the officers that their foremost responsibility is to safeguard civilians and uphold the rule of law.
“As trained soldiers, do not turn your weapons against civilians. Your duty is to protect the people, their property, and the territorial integrity of the nation. Work professionally and with passion, and always put civilians and their property first,” Marona added.
He emphasised that the credibility of the security forces depends on their ability to protect lives, respect human rights, and build public trust.
The promotion ceremony was attended by senior state government officials, heads of security institutions, traditional leaders, and relatives of the promoted officers.
Western Equatoria State has made gradual progress in improving security following years of armed conflict, communal violence, and attacks by armed groups that displaced thousands of people and disrupted livelihoods.
Despite improvements in several areas, concerns remain over sporadic insecurity and allegations of abuses committed by some members of the security forces.
The promotion of 71 civil defense officers comes as state authorities continue to strengthen security institutions and encourage professionalism among the organised forces.
Government officials have repeatedly emphasised that disciplined and accountable security personnel are essential for protecting civilians, maintaining public confidence, supporting the implementation of the revitalised peace agreement, and creating an environment conducive to peace and development across Western Equatoria State.