Western Equatoria State, South Sudan
January 24, 2022—Western Equatoria governors’ office has refuted General Education Minister’s allegations that the governor misappropriated money transferred to the state for educational purposes.
This comes after Minister Awut Deng Achuil accused Governor Alfred Futuyo on Friday of squandering 100 million South Sudanese Pounds to pay commissioners of the ten counties.
According to reports from Western Equatoria state, Governor Futuyo released the said money to the county commissioners; however, the State Minister of Education, Grace Apollo Musa denies the reports saying her ministry was not put into picture by the governor.
“I am not even aware. I just saw the money on social media how he was distributing it. During the meeting I was not with him because he did not include me I decided not to be part of that because I was not part of distribution also” Grace quoted by eye Radio to have explained.
The money was reportedly allocated by the government in Juba for teacher’s welfare in the 10 states and three administrative areas; however, the National Minister of General Education could not publicly say how much was allocated to each State.
In a statement seen by Nyamilepedia on Friday, Mrs. Achuil said, “That money was sent by the National Ministry of General Education to pay teachers’ salaries for the months of July, August and September – and to cover operational cost for Primary and Secondary schools – but not a donation to counties as noted by the governor”, she said.
She added that, her ministry was reliably informed about a cash diversion by WES governor – something she said was a violation of the rightful purpose.
In response, Governor Futuyos’ Press office said the Minister’s claim should be dismissed as a “fake news” intended to defame the governor of Western Equatoria State.
“The proclamation made by Hon. Minister of General Education should be preserved as fabricated and unjustified allegations against the governor of WES to tarnish his capability in leadership of governing and managing the state resources.”, Governor Futuyo’s press Secretary said in a statement obtained by Nyamilepedia.
Mr. Digi Alex, Futuyo’s Press Secretary said, the governor was ready to be audited and investigated since he is confident that he did nothing wrong.
