By Spy Uganda Correspondent
All bars and nightclubs in Juba have been ordered to shut down operations ahead of Pope Francis’s visit to the country.
Central Equatoria governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony said no club will be allowed to operate from January 30.
That order will see Juba residents enjoy a long and somewhat boring weekend for partygoers after the government declared Friday, February 3 a public holiday.
The order, according to state authority, is part of the efforts to ensure that the city remained “holy and organized” during the papal visit to South Sudan.
“The Mayor of Juba City Council is hereby directed to take necessary steps together with security operatives to swiftly implement this order effective from Monday, January 30, 2023,” the order read in part.
However, it is unclear when the Central Equatoria government will lift the ban.
According to the order read on the state-owned television station SSBC on Monday, Adil ordered Juba city mayor, Michael Alla-Jabu, and the security officials to ensure the order is effected
Governor Adil, and national government officials, have been on a tour to ensure that all the venues are set and ready for use as Juba prepares to receive visitors from around the world, including pilgrims from the 10 states and the three administrative areas,
Last week, South Sudan Police Spokesperson Daniel Justine said the necessary measures have been put in place to ensure that it is conducive to receiving visitors.
While addressing the security forces at Tiger Division in Juba on Monday, Gen. Santino Deng Wol, said the assigned soldiers would be deployed in all corners of the capital.
“The security matter is your responsibility. “We need to see our soldiers, SSPDF members, police, or national security personnel in every corner of Juba,” Gen Santino said.
Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police, Majak Akech, ordered security personnel on duty to be watchful of anyone who may attempt to disrupt public order.
Majak said the security forces will look out for robbers, bandits, and drunkards.
Pope Francis and his accompanying delegation are expected to arrive in South Sudan’s capital, Juba, this Friday.
During their stay, they will meet with internally displaced persons, top government officials, and their church congregations in Juba.
The visit is also expected to be attended by regional leaders, including President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, Kenya’s President William Ruto, and Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed.
