Kalisto Ladu Nyigilo has been sworn in as the caretaker commissioner of Juba County in South Sudan. His appointment was made by Central Equatoria State Caretaker Governor Augustino Wani Jadallah on October 2, 2026. Ladu Nyigilo, a former mayor of Juba, previously expressed interest in contesting the governorship but has pledged to remain politically neutral in his new role. He was sworn in alongside other caretaker commissioners for various counties and the caretaker mayor of Juba City Council.
As caretaker commissioner, Ladu Nyigilo has vowed to work with communities to prepare them for the upcoming elections scheduled for December 22, 2026. He emphasized that his administration would perform its duties without political bias, ensuring citizens can exercise their right to choose their leaders freely. Ladu Nyigilo also highlighted the county administration's focus on maintaining security, providing basic services, and ensuring public resources benefit local communities.
Governor Jadallah, who presided over the swearing-in ceremony, urged the new officials to treat their appointments as a public responsibility and remain impartial towards political parties, candidates, and citizens. He instructed them to work with security agencies, traditional leaders, and communities to prevent violence and resolve disputes peacefully. The governor also directed the Juba City administration to prioritize sanitation, waste management, drainage, road safety, traffic management, and market security.
The appointment of Ladu Nyigilo and other caretaker officials comes as South Sudan prepares for elections after years of delays under the transitional political process. According to the presidential order establishing the caretaker administration, officials serving in caretaker positions are barred from contesting elective office in the upcoming elections and are required to act impartially. They are also prohibited from using public office, government resources, or state institutions to promote or disadvantage political parties or candidates.
Governor Jadallah directed the caretaker officials to address pressing issues in their respective areas within 90 days. This includes working with communities to prepare them for the elections and ensuring that public resources are used for the benefit of local communities. The governor's directive emphasizes the importance of swift action by the new administration to address the needs of the communities.
The swearing-in ceremony included the appointment of caretaker commissioners for Yei River, Kajo-Keji, Terekeka, Lainya, and Morobo counties, as well as Christopher Serafino Wani Swaka, the caretaker mayor of Juba City Council. These appointments are seen as a crucial step towards ensuring the smooth conduct of the upcoming elections and addressing the needs of local communities.
Ladu Nyigilo's commitment to neutrality and his focus on community preparation for the elections have been welcomed by various stakeholders. His administration's success will be closely watched as South Sudan moves towards the polls. The caretaker commissioner's pledge to work with communities and ensure impartiality reflects the critical role his administration will play in the lead-up to the elections.
Key points
- Kalisto Ladu Nyigilo sworn in as caretaker commissioner of Juba County
- He vows to remain neutral ahead of December elections
- Caretaker officials directed to address pressing issues within 90 days
