President Salva Kiir Mayardit has tasked the newly appointed Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Dr. William Othwon Awer, with strengthening the performance of the ministry and ensuring it delivers effectively on its legal and constitutional responsibilities.
President Kiir made the call on Wednesday in Juba while presiding over the swearing-in ceremony of Dr. Othwon, urging the new Deputy Minister to take up outstanding responsibilities and build on the work of his predecessor.
The President said the Justice Ministry, like other government institutions, must demonstrate greater professionalism, competence and effectiveness as South Sudan prepares for the December elections.
“We have taken a decision to review the performances and qualifications and skills of constitutional postholders so that we put up stronger delivery of services to the people,” Kiir said.
He urged the newly appointed Deputy Minister to approach his responsibilities with renewed energy and work closely with other officials to strengthen the institution.
“Let’s continue working together to serve our nation and the people,” the President said.
Dr. Othwon, who formally assumed office through the swearing-in ceremony, thanked President Kiir for the confidence and trust placed in him.
Speaking on behalf of himself and his family, the new Deputy Minister pledged to carry out his duties with commitment and contribute to strengthening the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.
His appointment comes at a time when the government is emphasizing stronger institutional performance, professionalism and improved delivery of public services ahead of the country’s planned December elections.
Dr. Othwon is expected to work alongside the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs in addressing outstanding responsibilities within the ministry and supporting the implementation of its legal and constitutional mandate.
The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to President Kiir’s reform agenda, saying the institution would work collectively to improve its performance and strengthen legal services.
The Minister said he would work closely with Dr. Othwon and other officials to ensure that the ministry effectively fulfills its responsibilities and contributes to broader institutional reforms and nation-building.
The ministry’s role is particularly significant as South Sudan continues to undertake political and institutional processes linked to the implementation of the peace agreement and preparations for the upcoming elections.
The Justice Ministry is responsible for providing legal services to government, supporting the development and review of legislation and contributing to constitutional and institutional processes.
President Kiir’s directive to the new Deputy Minister comes as the government seeks to improve the capacity and performance of public institutions.
During the swearing-in ceremony, the President stressed that strengthening government should go beyond appointing officials and should include ensuring that qualified and experienced personnel are placed in positions where their skills can be effectively utilized.
The President’s remarks also placed renewed emphasis on the role of career professionals and technocrats in improving government performance.
For the Justice Ministry, the challenge will be to translate that political direction into stronger legal services, more effective institutional coordination and timely execution of its responsibilities.
The appointment of Dr. Othwon therefore comes with expectations for greater efficiency at a ministry that plays a central role in supporting the country’s legal and constitutional framework.
The swearing-in also comes as South Sudan moves toward the planned December 2026 elections, increasing pressure on government institutions to strengthen their preparedness and ability to serve citizens.
President Kiir has repeatedly emphasized the need for government officials to work collectively and prioritize the national interest as the country approaches the electoral period.
His latest directive suggests that institutional performance will remain an important part of the government’s preparations, with officials expected to demonstrate competence and accountability in their respective areas of responsibility.
For the new Deputy Minister, the immediate task will be to take up the ministry’s outstanding responsibilities while working with the Minister and other officials to strengthen the institution.
Dr. Othwon’s pledge to serve with commitment now places the spotlight on how the new leadership at the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs will translate the President’s call for professionalism and renewed performance into practical results.
The administration’s broader reform agenda will ultimately be measured not only by appointments and official directives, but by the ability of public institutions to deliver effective services and fulfill their mandates for the people of South Sudan.