Western Equatoria governor replaces senior officials in major shake-up

Western Equatoria State Governor James Alteib has carried out a sweeping overhaul of the state’s leadership, dismissing a wide range of senior officials and appointing new figures to key government positions. In a gubernatorial decree issued from the state secretariat, the governor relieved the Mayor of Yambio Municipality and multiple Directors-General from major ministries, including […]
Governor Al-Taib signs first Bill into law in Western Equatoria State

The Governor of Western Equatoria State, James Al-Taib Jazz Berapai, has signed his first bill into law, marking a significant milestone in the state’s legislative and governance history. The new legislation, ‘The Western Equatoria Constitutional Postholders’ Emoluments and Entitlements Act 2025’ was signed on Friday at the Governor’s Office in Yambio. He signed in the […]
SPLM-IO deputy governor drops political hammer on defectors

The political drama in Western Equatoria has flared again after SPLM-IO Deputy Governor Justin Joseph Marona swung his axe on four senior officials accused of defecting to the ruling SPLM-IG. In Order No. 01/2025, issued this week, Marona announced the dismissal of: Rubben Amaai, Commissioner of Mvolo County, Lino Fataki, Commissioner of Nzara County, John […]
Speaker suspends pay for absentee MPs in Western Equatoria

The Speaker of the Western Equatoria State Transitional Legislative Assembly (WESTLA), Rt. Hon. Ann Tuna Richard, has issued an order suspending the emoluments of Members of Parliament who have failed to attend ten consecutive sittings without official permission. The directive, announced on Monday, applies to lawmakers from nearly all political parties that are signatories to […]
SSPDF denies civilian killings, blames SPLA-IO in civilian clothes

The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) have dismissed recent social media claims accusing government forces of killing civilians in Western Equatoria state. Addressing the media on Wednesday, SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang said the allegations were false, emphasizing that civilians were not targeted by the army. “We did not move from house […]
Thousands displaced in Negaro County after armed clashes and looting

More than 7,000 civilians have been displaced in Negaro County following a violent assault by Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) forces on a South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) barracks. The attack, which erupted late last week in the county’s administrative center, triggered widespread panic and forced families to flee into surrounding bushes and […]
WES assembly submits emolument bill to governor Al Teib for approval

Lawmakers in Western Equatoria State have submitted a new Emolument Bill to Governor Barrister James Al-Teib Jazz Berapai, seeking legal backing for post-service benefits for state officials. According to Governor’s Official Facebook Page, the proposed legislation, aimed at securing financial and welfare entitlements for leaders after leaving office, now awaits the governor’s consideration and assent. […]
WES cabinet approves four suits for ministers as crisis persists

The Council of Ministers of Western Equatoria State convened its first meeting this week under the leadership of the newly appointed Governor James Al Taib and Deputy Governor, alongside six newly sworn-in ministers. The gathering, described as “unique and historic,” marked the start of a new chapter for the state leadership although with old challenges. […]
Council of ministers in Western Equatoria maps out 100-Day action plan

The Council of Ministers in Western Equatoria State has unveiled a 100-day action plan aimed at tackling insecurity, promoting good governance, and strengthening institutions, following its first official meeting under new leadership this week. Chaired by the newly appointed Governor James Al-Taib and Deputy Governor, alongside six sworn-in ministers, the meeting was described as “unique […]
Civil Society oushes for transparency and security in Western Equatoria

Civil society leader Edmond Yakani has urged the leadership of Western Equatoria State to focus on peace, security, and transparency in managing state affairs, stressing that citizens deserve service-centered governance. Welcoming the arrival of the Governor and Deputy Governor to Yambio, Yakani commended their presence in the state capital as a positive step toward demonstrating […]