Juba’s Acting Mayor Faces Controversy: Revocation and Request for Time Amidst Scandal

In a riveting turn of events in Juba, the capital city of South Sudan, Acting Mayor Emmanuel Khemis Richard finds himself at the centre of controversy on two fronts.

Revocation of Caretaker Mayor Role

Just days ago, Governor Adil issued a decisive gubernatorial decree to revoke the appointment of Hon. Emmanuel Khemis Richard, who also serves as the Commissioner of Lainya County, as the Caretaker Mayor of Juba City Council in Central Equatoria State. The decree came into effect immediately, on Friday, September 15, 2023. This move follows a period of upheaval after a video went viral, showing the Acting Mayor allegedly slapping a female vendor.

Scandal Erupts Over Viral Video

The scandal began when a 2-minute and 9-second video clip surfaced on September 12. In the video, Acting Mayor Khemis, accompanied by armed police and others, confronts vendors along the Seventh-Day roundabout in Juba. The video shows Khemis and his team chasing vendors from the roadside, and he is seen carrying two pistols. Shockingly, the video captures an alleged incident where he slapped a woman vendor with his left hand.

The video sparked a furious public backlash, with many South Sudanese citizens condemning it as a shocking display of poor leadership and abuse of power. Lawmakers, civil society activists, and women’s groups joined the chorus of voices calling for the removal of the Acting Mayor.

Summoned by the City Legislative Council

In response to the public outrage, the Juba City Legislative Council summoned Acting Mayor Khemis to appear before the council to address questions surrounding the incident. Originally scheduled for next Monday, the summons has now become a focal point of the controversy.

Request for Time to Compile Report

In a recent development, Acting Mayor Khemis accepted the summons but made a request for more time. He asked for a 14-day extension to compile a comprehensive, evidence-based report on the matter. In a letter addressed to the City Legislative Council, Khemis stated, “I request the date fixed to be amended and adjourned to give me ample time of fourteen days to compile a comprehensive evidenced-based report on the matter.” He also requested specific questions from the council to ensure a proper response.

As the controversy surrounding Acting Mayor Khemis Richard deepens, Juba and South Sudan await further developments in this unfolding story, which has captured international attention. The incident has not only raised questions about local leadership but also highlights broader issues of governance and accountability in the region.

This is a story that continues to evolve, and its outcome will undoubtedly shape the political landscape in Juba and beyond. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation.