Jonglei activist urges Kiir to appoint new Deputy Governor

BOR – The Executive Director of INTREPID South Sudan, Bol Deng Bol, has issued an urgent appeal to President Salva Kiir’s office to fill the long-vacant position of Jonglei State Deputy Governor.

The call comes amid growing concerns over administrative inefficiencies and political imbalances in the state, where the deputy governor’s post has remained unoccupied for months.

The vacancy arose following the removal of the previous deputy governor, Atong Kuol Manyang, who was appointed as the national Minister for Trade and Industry in March 2024.

In the same month, Mr. Kiir issued a decree appointing Dr. Riek Gai Kok as Jonglei State Governor, leaving the deputy position unfilled. This prolonged absence has sparked unease among residents and civil society leaders, who argue that the state’s governance structure is incomplete without a deputy governor.

Deng, a prominent activist, acknowledged Gai’s efforts to maintain stability in Jonglei, a state often grappling with intercommunal conflicts and humanitarian challenges. However, he emphasised that the absence of a deputy governor undermines administrative efficiency and disrupts the political balance mandated by the Jonglei State Constitution.

“The Deputy Governor plays a pivotal role in supporting the Governor, overseeing key administrative functions, and ensuring seamless coordination across state institutions,” Deng said. “Without this position filled, there’s a significant gap in the state’s leadership framework.”

The activist highlighted that the deputy governor’s role is not merely ceremonial but essential for sharing the governor’s workload and addressing the complex needs of Jonglei’s diverse population.

The state, one of South Sudan’s largest, faces persistent issues such as flooding, insecurity, and limited access to basic services, making effective governance critical.

Deng warned that the continued vacancy could lead to administrative bottlenecks, hinder service delivery, and exacerbate political tensions among local communities.

A local resident, speaking anonymously, echoed Deng’s concerns, stating, “While we appreciate Gai’s leadership, the absence of a deputy creates an imbalance. It places an undue burden on the Governor and slows down decision-making processes.”

The resident’s sentiments reflect a broader public desire for a fully functional leadership to address Jonglei’s pressing challenges.

Deng stressed that the appointment of a deputy governor is not only a constitutional obligation but also a matter of public interest.

“The people of Jonglei have a right to a complete and effective leadership structure,” he said. “A timely appointment would demonstrate President Kiir’s commitment to good governance and ensure that the state’s needs are met efficiently.”

The activist also called for a transparent and inclusive selection process, urging the president to consider a candidate who can foster unity and address the state’s unique challenges.

“The constitutional provisions exist to guide us toward stability and progress,” Deng noted. “Filling this position promptly will send a strong message about prioritising the welfare of Jonglei’s citizens.”

Amid persistent humanitarian and security challenges, the activist suggests the appointment of a capable deputy could bolster the current administration and pave the way for more effective leadership.