By Obiala Angel De-son — Torit
The Caretaker Governor of Eastern Equatoria State, Louis Lobong Lojore, has ordered the nomination and approval of caretaker county commissioners ahead of South Sudan’s general elections scheduled for December 2026.
Governor Lobong made the remarks on Tuesday while addressing members of the SPLM/A party at the party’s state secretariat in Torit.
He said the caretaker commissioners will be tasked with promoting and strengthening peaceful coexistence among communities and creating a conducive environment for peaceful, fair, and credible elections.
“Time is against us. There is a need to appoint county caretakers. However, there is a need for critical analysis and scrutiny, as we are going to work there. There is a need for them to create a conducive and peaceful environment. It is a shared responsibility. I don’t want to be blamed tomorrow. Those who are able to appoint should know that they will be seen, and those whose caretaker commissioner is not yet ready will stay for a while.”
Governor Lobong also urged SPLM/A members and communities to prioritize dialogue, forgiveness and reconciliation ahead of the December elections.
“We need to dialogue among ourselves and put aside our misunderstandings. A team cannot go for a friendly match while having problems; they never win the game. So, we need to have peace and reconcile among ourselves. Dialogue, unity and reconciliation are very vital. If I hurt you, sometimes back, forgive me, and if I also hurt you, you must also forgive me at this time of political campaigns and elections.”
The governor further called on communities in Eastern Equatoria to focus on the upcoming elections rather than demands for the creation of additional states, counties and administrative areas.
“Let us stop calling for new states, counties and administrative areas. However, let us first struggle for the election; you will be given what you want.”
The state official made the remarks in Torit on Tuesday, as political parties and communities prepare for the planned December 2026 general elections.