Western Equatoria State Governor, Barrister James AlTaib Berapai, has hailed the appointment and swearing-in of Hon. Margaret Fozia Emmanuel as the new Chairperson of the State Independent Human Rights Commission, describing the event as “history in the making.”
The colorful ceremony, held at the State Secretariat headquarters in Yambio, attracted senior government officials, church leaders, community elders, and representatives of youth and civil society, all united to celebrate what many called a “new dawn for accountability and justice” in the state.
Governor Berapai praised President Salva Kiir Mayardit for entrusting Hon. Fozia with the critical task of safeguarding human rights, adding that her appointment represents not only confidence in her leadership but also a milestone for the people of Western Equatoria.
“It is important to note that what we are witnessing here today is not just another event; it is the making of history,” Governor Berapai declared.
“The President has entrusted into her hands a responsibility of great importance the responsibility of life itself, the life and future of our people. May this trust be carried with honor, dignity, and a spirit of service to all”
The Governor emphasized that the Commission will play a vital role at a time when the protection of human dignity remains a global concern.
He urged Hon. Fozia to uphold both national laws and international human-rights standards in carrying out her duties.
In her maiden speech, Hon. Margaret Fozia Emmanuelwho previously served as Commissioner of Mundri East expressed gratitude to President Kiir, her political party, and the Governor for their confidence in her.
She pledged to dedicate her leadership to advancing human rights and raising awareness across all communities of Western Equatoria.
“It will be our responsibility as a Commission to work together and give awareness to our people to help them know their rights and defend their dignity,” Hon. Fozia said.
“We wish to continue hand-in-hand with the Governor and all stakeholders to strengthen the Human Rights Commission in Western Equatoria.”
Also speaking at the event, Hon. Rev. John Bariyona Farula, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, described the appointment as a watershed moment for justice and accountability.
“The establishment of a functional Human Rights Commission under the leadership of Hon. Fozia is a strong signal that Western Equatoria is committed to protecting the dignity of its citizens,” Bariyona remarked.
The event was attended by government leaders, traditional authorities, church representatives, and civil society groups, many of whom hailed the occasion as a turning point in the state’s effort to strengthen accountability, promote civic awareness, and safeguard the rights of ordinary citizens.
Community elders described Fozia’s appointment as a breakthrough moment that will inspire confidence in the justice system, while youth representatives expressed hope that the Commission would amplify thevoices of marginalized groups.
Governor Berapai concluded his remarks by urging record-keepers and historians to enshrine the day’s event in the archives of the people.
“This is a landmark for our generation and those to come. Let it be remembered that today, Western Equatoria State raised its voice for dignity, for rights, and for justice.”
With the swearing-in of Hon. Margaret Fozia Emmanuel, Western Equatoria now looks toward building a stronger framework for human rights, justice, and accountability a step many believe will lay the foundation for peace and development in the state and across South Sudan.
