Western Equatoria Caretaker Governor reshuffles state government

His appointment as Caretaker Governor last month by President Salva Kiir followed the surprise removal and detention of his predecessor Bangasi Joseph Bakosoro. After four days Bakosoro was released without charges.

Until now Western Equatoria State has remained relatively peaceful while fighting killed and displaced large numbers of people in other parts of the country.

The reshuffles involves a few ministers moving from one ministry to another, while others have been sacked. Locals sources, who declined to be named, said this change could follow pressure from the general population after the governor’s non-performance in office.

The reshuffle replaces nine ministers and the Caretaker Governor also appointed new state advisors and commissioners.

Bullen Abiataraj Hakim was appointed as the new Deputy Governor. The new cabinet announced is comprised of the following ministers:

Patrick Kandi K., Minister of Finance and Economic Planning;
Elia Kosta Faustino, Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement;
Rajab Simon Mohandi, Minister of Roads and Bridges;
Tomburo Michael Renzi, Minister of Trade, Commerce and Investment;
Pia Philip Michael, Minister of Education, Science and Technology;
Daniel Esbon Zingifuaboro, Minister of Information and Communication;
Joseph Natale Sabuni, Minister of Agriculture, Cooperatives and Environment;
Aballahaziz Yousif Dokolo, Minister of Labour, Public Service and Human Resource;
Nagomoro Brigit Philimmon, Minister of Health.