Central Equatoria State Governor Lt. Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel has called for strengthened cooperation between the government, citizens, and the Church to advance peace, unity, and security across the state.
Speaking to worshippers during Sunday Mass at St. Joseph’s Parish in Juba, Governor Mujung said the Church and the government must work hand in hand to address persistent social challenges such as land grabbing, rising suicide cases, and the continued presence of holdout groups in some areas.
“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,” Mujung said.
He stressed that the Church’s involvement in promoting reconciliation and social harmony remains vital in rebuilding trust within communities still recovering from conflict.
Mujung lauded the Church’s historical role in the country’s liberation struggle, urging continued partnership in guiding moral values and nurturing unity among citizens.
“The Church remains a key partner in shaping moral direction and promoting reconciliation,” he noted, adding that true peace can only be sustained when spiritual and civic institutions work together.
Auxiliary Bishop Santo Laku Pio of the Catholic Archdiocese of Juba, who led the service, echoed the Governor’s call for cooperation and humility in leadership.
“Leadership is a calling to serve, not to be served,” Bishop Laku said, urging both political and religious leaders to lead with compassion and accountability.
Juba City Mayor Christopher Sarafino Wani also spoke during the service, appealing to citizens to join collective efforts in maintaining peace, cleanliness, and order in the capital.
“Peace, love, and unity is the message I want to share. Only through cooperation can we move our city forward. Stand with us in action as we strive to keep Juba clean,” said Mayor Wani.
The Sunday service was attended by several senior government officials, including Chief Justice Dr. Benjamin Baak Deng, Health Minister Sarah Cleto, and Livestock and Fisheries Minister Onyoti Adigo, among others.
The Governor was accompanied by his cabinet team, including the Ministers of Cabinet Affairs, Peace Building, and Housing, as well as the Commissioner of Juba County.
Governor Mujung reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting local peace initiatives that promote forgiveness, dialogue, and national unity, saying that Central Equatoria’s stability remains vital for the entire country.
“When Central Equatoria is united, the whole of South Sudan feels the peace,” he said.
