By Lodu William Odiya
Unity State Health Ministry has denied the alleged suspension of health services in Panyijar County of Unity State, describing it as a false allegation.
This comes after alleged reports claiming that the county has suspended all health services over the commissioner’s objection to the appointment of the county health director.
In a statement extended to the media, John Mut Bol Kiir, who is the acting minister of health, said the state ministry of health has directed the newly appointed county health director to report to his workstation as soon as possible in order to deliver essential services to the vulnerable communities of the county.
The statement highlighted that the decision regarding the suspension or continuation of health services in Panyijiar County would be made only after the CHD has assumed his duties, with or without administrative constraints.
It also noted that the Unity State Ministry of Health reiterated its commitment to delivering quality health services to the people of Panyijiar under the Health Sector Transformation Project (HSTP).
“As a government-led project, HSTP requires that officials overseeing its implementation must be formally appointed and endorsed by the government. This ensures timely and effective coordination and reporting between the County Health Department and the SMoH, avoiding administrative pitfalls,” the statement underlined.
According to the statement, the SMoH strongly advised the County Commissioner and his allies to reconsider their decision to appoint an alternative candidate not recognized by the ministry.
The statement noted such a move risk undermining the efficient delivery of health services in the county on multiple fronts.
The statement further clarified that while the letter from the County Commissioner and the alleged SPLM-IO Health Secretariat in Unity State rejecting the governor’s appointee has been received, the SMoH maintains its position until the officially appointed CHD assumes office.
It finally urged the community of Panyijiar to disregard misinformation circulating on social media about a halt to health services.
“The ministry remains committed to serving the people of Panyijiar and will continue to communicate any further updates through official channels,” the statement emphasized.