By Deng Ghai Deng
BOR – September 19, 2025— Samuel Ateny Pech Ariik has been officially been sworn in as the Commissioner of Bor County on Friday, replacing James Gai Makhor, who was dismissed by President Salva Kiir in a surprise decree on Wednesday night.
Pech’s journey to the commissioner’s office wasn’t anything smooth. A senior figure within the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) in Jonglei State, Pech was first appointed to the role by presidential decree in 2023. However, his previous swearing-in was blocked by then-Governor Denay Jock Chagor, who cited opposition from segments of the Bor community.
This opposition was publicly spearheaded by Angok Kuol Tiir, Chairman of the Bor Community, who wrote a letter urging the state governor not to endorse Pech for the commissionership.
The political stalemate persisted until the appointment of Jonglei’s new governor, Dr. Riek Gai Kok, who threw his full support behind Pech and moved swiftly to facilitate his confirmation.
Friday’s swearing-in ceremony, held in Bor, drew thousands of supporters—a powerful show of public backing that Pech was quick to notice in his remarks after taking oath of office.
“To those who have claimed that I was disowned by the community of Bor—today’s turnout speaks for itself,” Pech stated. “A leader who is truly rejected by their community would not receive such a warm and massive show of support. This gathering is proof that those allegations were completely unfounded.”
Pech also extended his gratitude to President Salva Kiir Mayardit for his reappointment and to Governor Kok for his “unwavering support.”
As he takes on the role, Pech faces the challenge of uniting the community and healing the political wounds created by the long struggle for the commissionership.
The ceremony also included the induction of other newly appointed officials for Jonglei State, including ministers for General Education, Fisheries, and Land & Housing among others.