By Sabri Dibaco
The caretaker governor of Western Equatoria State has pledged to work for peace and support efforts to ensure the upcoming general elections are conducted on time.
Speaking after receiving five Toyota Land Cruiser vehicles donated to the state government by the senior presidential adviser on special programs, the governor, Daniel Badagbu, said his administration would focus on creating a peaceful and conducive environment for citizens to participate in the electoral process.
“I’m going to commit myself to serving the people of South Sudan and the people of Western Equatoria and to working for peace and making sure that the election is delivered on time,” Badagbu said.
He said the state government would work closely with communities to promote peace and prepare citizens for the elections.
“This is the contribution we are going to make: to work with our people to create a conducive environment for the people,” Badagbu added.
The governor also emphasised the importance of civic education, saying citizens need to be informed about the electoral process ahead of the polls.
“We are also going to educate the people on the issues of election and facilitate election and make sure that peace prevails,” Badagbu opined.
The caretaker governor expressed gratitude, citing that the donation would help the state government improve its ability to reach communities and deliver public services.
“These vehicles are going to help Western Equatoria to deliver services and good governance to the people,” Badagbu said.
He described the contribution by Senior Special Envoy Adut as a patriotic and nationalistic gesture towards the people of Western Equatoria.
“I’m very grateful for this nationalistic and patriotic contribution the Honourable Special Envoy has made to the people of Western Equatoria,” Badagbu stated.
The governor expressed appreciation on behalf of the state government and the people of Western Equatoria while also thanking President Salva Kiir Mayardit for appointing him to lead the state in the caretaker period.
“I really appreciate it, and I take it with my whole heart. And I’m going to commit myself to serve the people of South Sudan, the people of Western Equatoria,” he said.
The governor’s remarks come as South Sudan intensifies preparations for the upcoming elections, with national and state authorities expected to support voter awareness, peaceful participation, and the implementation of electoral activities.
Western Equatoria, like other states, faces logistical and security challenges that could affect access to communities and the delivery of election-related activities.
The governor’s commitment places peacebuilding, public awareness, and cooperation with local communities at the centre of the state’s preparations for the polls.
Western Equatoria is among South Sudan’s states preparing for the upcoming general elections amid ongoing efforts by national and sub-national authorities to strengthen security, public administration, and community engagement.
The provision of vehicles comes as caretaker administrations across the country continue to face logistical challenges in reaching remote communities and implementing government programs.
The vehicles are expected to improve mobility for the Western Equatoria government, particularly in areas where poor road infrastructure and long distances can limit access to public services and government officials.