JUBA — Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel and Western Equatoria Governor Sharif Daniel Sharif discussed peace and service delivery in a meeting held in Juba on Thursday, according to the vice president’s office.
Sharif, an ally of SPLM-IO faction led by Stephen Par Kuol, was recently appointed by President Kiir to replace Emmanuel Ukel, who is aligned with detained opposition leader Dr. Riek Machar.
A statement from Bol’s office said Governor Sharif outlined inclusive governance as one of his immediate priorities.
“He (Sharif) urges community leaders and civil society to work with him to channel citizens’ voices and feedback, and to bridge the gap between local government and the people,” the statement noted.
Vice President Bol then encouraged Sharif to lead with diligence, responsibility, and service above self, it noted.
He also directed the governor to be “proactive and reminded him that true leadership is measured not by words but by tangible transformation in the lives of the people.”
It was further stated that the powerful Vice President also called upon all governors across the country to champion the fulfilment of President Kiir’s vision of ensuring that essential services reach the people.