In an unprecedented move in the political history of Western Equatoria State, Governor Barrister James Altaib Jazz Berapai has officially delegated authority to his deputy, Hon. Justine Joseph Marona, as he departs for Juba on an official mission on Tuesday October 2, 2025.
The Governor announced the handover at Yambio Airport before his departure, underscoring his commitment to constitutional governance and transparency.
The decision, he said, was guided by Presidential Decree No. 379 of September 30, 2025, Article 99(1) of the Transitional Constitution of Western Equatoria State (2011, as amended), and a resolution of the State Council of Ministers.
“This delegation of authority is not just a constitutional formality it is a demonstration of our trust in leadership continuity,” Governor Altaib stated. “My deputy will steer the state’s affairs with full transparency and authority until my return.”
According to the official decree, Deputy Governor Marona will act as governor, chair the State Council of Ministers and Security Committee meetings, oversee the payment of salaries for state institutions, administer the state secretariat, and consult the Governor on major issues requiring his direct opinion.
Addressing journalists, Deputy Governor Marona praised the Governor’s open and transparent handover as a sign of political maturity and unity in leadership.
“As resolved in our extraordinary Council of Ministers meeting, the Governor is traveling to Juba to brief His Excellency the President on the prevailing security challenges and the urgent needs of our people,” Marona said.
He added: “I will take care of the state with full transparency. This is one of the noble values we have adopted to lead hand in hand with the Governor for the good of our people. I wish him fruitful discussions in Juba and a safe return so that together we continue addressing the critical issues facing our communities.”
The Deputy Governor further reassured citizens in all counties particularly Mundri East, Tombura, and Nagero that their concerns remain central to the state’s agenda.
“To our people in Western Equatoria, within South Sudan, and abroad, I want you to know that we are doing our best with the Governor to restore peace, maintain security, and improve livelihoods,” Marona emphasized.
This marks the first time a sitting Governor in Western Equatoria has publicly delegated powers to a Deputy before the media.
Political observers note the significance of the move, particularly as the Governor represents the ruling SPLM party, while his deputy hails from SPLM-IO a symbol of unity and power-sharing under the peace agreement.
The Governor is expected to meet President Salva Kiir Mayardit in Juba to discuss the security situation, humanitarian challenges, and governance priorities for Western Equatoria State.