In a strong show of commitment to justice and good governance, Governor Barrister James Al Taib Berapai of Western Equatoria State has called on lawyers and legal practitioners to unite and support his administration in promoting the rule of law across the state.
The call came during a courtesy visit by a delegation of lawyers and advocates from the Lawyers Association of Western Equatoria State to the Governor’s office on Tuesday, September 9, 2025.
Addressing the delegation, Governor Al Taib reflected on his roots in the legal profession and urged the lawyers to work closely with the government to ensure justice reaches every corner of the state.
“I came from the team of lawyers to become a governor, if I fail, it will be the failure of all lawyers and advocates of Western Equatoria State and if I succeed, it will equally be your success,” Governor Al Taib said, stressing that his success is intertwined with the legal fraternity and the people of the state.
The Governor further urged lawyers both within and outside the state to advocate for good governance and to monitor government activities, emphasizing the need for citizens to have unrestricted access to justice.
“The law must take its course. Every citizen should have equal access to justice,” he stated,
He added that Western Equatoria had long suffered from a shortage of legal professionals serving the counties.
With the arrival of a new High Court Judge and the plan for deployment of lawyers across the state, Governor Al Taib assured that justice will now reach every citizen in every county.
The Deputy Chairperson of the Western Equatoria State Lawyers Association, Advocate LawrenceAbiare, welcomed the Governor’s initiative, pledging the association’s full support.
“We are ready to work hand in hand to support the Governor and the people of Western Equatoria State, and that is why we are here in your office. It is important that there is a rule of law so that citizens feel free to express themselves without fear,” he said.
Adding their voices during the visit, Molana Nadir Abdallah Ramkiza member of the Western Equatoria State Lawyers Association encouraged collaboration between the state and religious institutions to uphold justice and morality.
“We must ensure that our communities not only follow the law but also uphold ethical and moral standards. Together with the Governor and lawyers, we can build a society where justice and fairness prevail,” Molana Ramkiza said.
However, advocate Malis Stanley Jambo, another senior member of the legal fraternity, emphasized the role of lawyers in shaping governance and holding public officials accountable.
“Lawyers are not just enforcers of rules; we are guardians of democracy and good governance. Supporting the Governor in this mission is crucial forthe development and stability of Western Equatoria State,” Advocate Jambo stated.
Governor Al Taib, a seasoned lawyer and former president of the South Sudan Bar Association with over 13 years of legal experience, has made clear that his administration will prioritize rule of law, transparency, and citizen participation.
His early engagements, just days into office, signal a proactive approach to bridging the gap between the government and the legal community.
“My vision is simple: every citizen, regardless of location, should have access to law and justice. I call on all lawyers, advocates, and civil society to join hands with the government in achieving this goal,” he concluded.
The back-to-back engagements, including welcoming a new High Court Judge to the state, underline the Governor’s determination to reinforce justice and accountability as the cornerstone of his administration, promising a new era of collaboration between the government, the legal fraternity, and the people of Western Equatoria State.