C. Equatoria official suspended over alleged misconduct

December 16, 2011 (JUBA) — The Commissioner of Central Equatoria’s
Morobo County, Ofeni Ngota announced he had suspended the County’s
Executive Director over alleged misconduct and abuse of office.

John Hakim, sources told Sudan Tribune, was relieved from his duties on Thursday in compliance with resolutions by the county legislative
assembly members during their fourth quarterly ordinary sitting.

Also suspended during the 5 December 2011 legislative session was Raphael Sebit Agustino, the county’s financial controller.

Asked why the duo was suspended, the Morobo commissioner said he acted in response to the council’s decision, adding that the matter is now before the state ministry for local government for the next course of action.

“The points adduced before my office prompted me to suspend their services with immediate effect. But for purposes of confidentiality, I request you to wait for the decision taken by the local government ministry,” the Commissioner said by phone.

Their respective ministry is hereby requested to transfer them out of the county and replace their position to avoid administrative tensions in the office.

James Kenyi Elia, county legislative council speaker, who passed the vote of no confidence, said the two officers suspended in absentia, acted contrary to the Local Government Act 2009.

In a separate interview with Sudan Tribune on Friday, a seemingly shocked Hakim wondered how we obtained information regarding his suspension, instead referring all queries to the Commissioner.

“My friend from Sudan Tribune, you go and ask the Commissioner himself, not me. Am busy, I will call you later,” he said before hanging up.

The former Executive Director is also accused among of allegedly failing to account for about 12,458,000 South Sudan Pounds (SSP) meant for purchase of solar panels for the county administrative offices.

He is further alleged to have defied the county council’s resolution requesting him to prepare and present a comprehensive report on all plots issued in their various classes and funds collected.

(ST)