President Salva Kiir shakes hands with newly appointed Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Dr. William Othwon Awer, during his swearing-in ceremony at the State House. Photo credit: Office of the President.

President Salva Kiir has directed the new Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs to strengthen the performance of the institution and improve services to citizens.

President Kiir gave the directive while presiding over the swearing-in of Dr. William Othwon Awer at the State House this afternoon.

Dr. Othwon, a member of parliament for and a former governor of Upper Nile State, was appointed to the position on Monday to replace Malek Joseph Arop, who was dismissed on the same day.

According to a statement issued by the Office of the President, Kiir directed Dr. Othwon and other government officials to work collectively, uphold their responsibilities, and put the national interest and service to citizens at the center of their work.

For his part, Dr. Othwon pledged to carry out his responsibilities with commitment and continue efforts to strengthen the ministry and deliver on its mandate.