President Kiir relieves only female governor Sarah Cleto
Cleto, who served as governor since her appointment in 2020, and has since written letters of appreciate to the President, and First Vice President, was the only female leader in that capacity
By Emmanuel Mandella
In a notable reshuffle, President Salva Kiir has dismissed Sarah Cleto from her position as Governor of Western Bahr el Ghazal State, replacing her with Emmanuel Primo Okello. Another significant decree included the removal of Deputy Minister of Finance Agok Makur and the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Roads and Bridges, signaling sweeping changes within the government.
While the reasons behind Cleto’s dismissal remain undisclosed, President Kiir’s office highlighted his confidence in Okello, emphasizing his experience and capability to navigate the complex socio-political landscape of Western Bahr el Ghazal.
Okello, known for his diplomatic acumen and strategic leadership, expressed his readiness to assume the role and pledged to focus on regional development and unity. “My mission is to serve the people of Western Bahr el Ghazal with transparency and commitment. Together, we will address pressing issues and strengthen community resilience,” Okello said during a brief statement following his appointment.
Analysts suggest that the sudden leadership shifts might be an attempt to invigorate governance amid growing public demands for more effective administration and accountability. The transition in Western Bahr el Ghazal is anticipated to be swift.
Cleto, who served as governor since her appointment in 2020, was the only female leader in that capacity, a move that was considered by many, as a milestone to setting the tables for women leaders in the country.
In a statement addressed to President Salva Kiir on Friday evening following her dismissal, the former governor of Western Bahr el Ghazal State thanked the head of state for granted her the opportunity to serve under his leadership, saying she ‘remains thankful for the experience and knowledge gained while working alongside you.’
“As the only female among the governors appointed by you on June 30th, 2020, I am honored to have contributed to the development and growth of our great nation. Your vision for South Sudan has inspired me, and I am proud to have played a role in its realization,” Hon. Cleto said in her letter of appreciation, adding:
“… I appreciate the trust you placed in me to lead Western Bahr el Ghazal State for the last four years, and I will remain grateful for the support and guidance you provided throughout my tenure.”
Meanwhile, the former governor also wrote a letter of appreciate to the First Vice President, H.E Riek Machar, and leader of the SPLM-IO, the party to which she belonged, thanking Dr. Machar for the trust and support during her time in office.
“Now that my time in office has ended, I want to thank you for the experience and knowledge gained while working alongside you. Your mentorship has been instrumental in my growth, and I will always cherish the lesson learned,” she wrote in part.
