Lakes State Governor: Warns Officials Abuse Power, Cites Rumbek North Commissioner

• Lakes State Governor Madhang Majok Meen warned newly appointed officials against abusing their power during a swearing-in ceremony in Rumbek.
• Governor Majok specifically called out Rumbek North Commissioner Biliu Awuol regarding past allegations, including ordering a person's mouth burned with firewood.
• He emphasized that government positions are temporary and officials must prioritize public service, not personal gain or brutality.
• The governor also urged newly appointed Rumbek East Commissioner Mapuor Malek to correct past mistakes and avoid civilian atrocities.
• This strong stance signals a new focus on accountability and ethical governance under Governor Majok, who was appointed in February.

The governor unequivocally stated that his government would not tolerate "inhumane torture and brutality" within Lakes State.

Lakes State Governor Madhang Majok Meen recently delivered a stark warning to newly appointed officials, cautioning them against the abuse and misuse of authority. Speaking in Rumbek, the state capital, during the swearing-in ceremony for six state ministers, three county commissioners, and the head of an independent commission, Governor Majok emphasized the temporary nature of government roles. He underscored that their performance would be judged by their dedication to public service, urging them not to betray the trust of the people of South Sudan, and particularly those in Lakes State. This strong stance by the Lakes State Governor warns officials abuse power, signaling a renewed focus on ethical governance.

Governor Majok’s address highlighted a critical aspect of Lakes State government accountability, stressing that public positions are not for personal gain but for the betterment of the community. He articulated a clear expectation for officials to concentrate on their duties and serve the populace diligently. This foundational message set the tone for the new administration, indicating a departure from past practices where such warnings might have been less direct or specific. The governor's remarks aim to instill a sense of responsibility and integrity from the outset of these officials' tenures.

The governor’s address took a particularly sharp turn when he directly confronted officials with records of previous service in the state administration. Madhang Majok Meen official misconduct concerns were brought to the forefront as he specifically named Biliu Awuol, the newly appointed Commissioner for Rumbek North, who was returning to the role. Governor Majok explicitly urged Awuol not to repeat what he termed "past abuses," including a grave allegation that Awuol had previously ordered a person's mouth to be burned with firewood during his prior tenure. The governor unequivocally stated that his government would not tolerate "inhumane torture and brutality" within Lakes State.

In a similar vein, the governor also addressed Mapuor Malek, the newly appointed Rumbek East Commissioner, imploring him to rectify past errors and prevent any future atrocities against civilians. These direct challenges underscore the seriousness with which the administration views Rumbek officials abuse of power and related allegations. In response to the governor's pointed remarks, Biliu Awuol, the Rumbek North Commissioner, publicly pledged to prioritize security, dialogue, and reconciliation, committing to ensure residents could live without fear and improve their safety. This public acknowledgment of Biliu Awuol Rumbek North allegations and the subsequent pledge mark a significant moment for transparency and accountability.

Beyond individual warnings, Governor Majok articulated a broader vision for public service ethics, emphasizing impartiality and dedication. He declared that he had no personal friends or favorites among the officials, reinforcing that their positions were solely for public benefit. He instructed ministers to focus on development and public services, while commissioners were tasked with central roles in security and local administration. His directive was clear: officials must deliver services to their constituents and strengthen their leadership at the grassroots level.

This push for enhanced South Sudan public service ethics follows Governor Majok's own recent appointment in February, after President Salva Kiir replaced the previous Lakes State governor, Rin Tueny Mabor, in a January reshuffle. Furthermore, in May, Governor Majok had already established committees dedicated to mediating long-standing traditional disputes across various communities in the state, demonstrating a proactive approach to governance. Information and Communication Minister Refael Bang Mayor echoed the sentiment, acknowledging that while the new cabinet would continue the work of its predecessors, residents hold high expectations for tangible improvements, aiming for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous state through dedicated service delivery.

This development signals a heightened focus on official accountability and anti-corruption efforts within Lakes State. Lawyers advising clients operating in the region should emphasize rigorous due diligence and compliance with ethical governance standards, as the new administration appears committed to prosecuting abuse of power.

Source: Original reporting via Radio Tamazuj