Jonglei State caretaker governor Moses Majok Gatluak has made significant administrative changes, appointing six caretaker county commissioners. This move comes as the state struggles with ongoing intercommunal violence. The appointments were formalized through Gubernatorial Decree No. 02 of 2026, signed on October 2, 2026. The newly appointed commissioners will oversee various counties, including Akobo, Ayod, Bor, Fangak, Pigi, and Uror. These appointments aim to address the challenges faced by the state.
The appointed commissioners include Mai Meat Thoan for Akobo County, Gatluak Gai Teny for Ayod, Daniel Deng Panchol for Bor, Manyang Gatluak Bany for Fangak, Nhial Deng Puuch for Pigi, and Biel Lam Pech for Uror. Additionally, Chol Deng Gatluak was appointed caretaker commissioner of Duk County, replacing John Chatim Ruei, who was affected by the recent dissolution of South Sudan’s transitional government. These changes reflect the governor's efforts to reorganize the state's administrative structure.
The appointments follow the recent naming of new administrators for Twic East and Duk counties. James Magok Mabiei was appointed caretaker commissioner of Twic East County on October 4, 2026. However, Nyirol County has yet to receive a caretaker commissioner. The ongoing violence between communities in Twic East and Duk has raised concerns, with over a dozen people reportedly killed in a recent attack on Apiir Palaidhiim village in Duk County.
Bol Deng Bol, chairperson of the Jonglei Civil Society Network, has emphasized the critical role of the new commissioners. He believes they should prioritize security, reconciliation, and rebuilding trust among communities. According to Bol, the commissioners must work closely with traditional leaders, civil society groups, and local communities to prevent further violence. This collaborative approach is seen as essential in addressing the state's security challenges.
Bol Deng Bol also highlighted the need for concrete action to improve security and service delivery. He cautioned that merely changing commissioners will not solve the problems and that the new officials require resources, political support, and cooperation from communities to deliver meaningful results. The commissioners' ability to engage with local stakeholders and address pressing issues will be crucial in their roles.
The recent violence in Jonglei State underscores the complexities faced by the new commissioners. The conflict between communities in Twic East and Duk has resulted in significant human suffering. Efforts to address the root causes of the violence and promote peace will be essential in stabilizing the region. The commissioners will need to navigate these challenges while working to rebuild trust and promote reconciliation.
As the situation in Jonglei State continues to evolve, the effectiveness of the new caretaker county commissioners will be closely watched. Their success will depend on their ability to prioritize security, promote reconciliation, and improve service delivery. With the right approach and support, the commissioners may help stabilize the region and pave the way for long-term peace and development.
Key points
- The appointments aim to address the challenges faced by Jonglei State amid ongoing intercommunal violence.
- The new commissioners have been urged to prioritize security, reconciliation, and rebuilding trust among communities.
- The effectiveness of the caretaker county commissioners will depend on their ability to collaborate with local stakeholders and address pressing issues.
