The Aweil State parliament has elected a new speaker and deputy speaker on Monday to lead the parliament after the leadership of the former Northern Bahr el Ghazal State parliament was sacked as the state divides into three successor states.

Deng Ayom Ayom won election as the new and first speaker for the Aweil State Assembly, while Nyibol Achor Dhel becomes deputy speaker.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj after the swearing-in ceremony on Monday, Aweil State Deputy Speaker Nyibol Achor said she was happy for her appointment, adding that she will work hard to bring services ot the citizens of Aweil State.

Nyibol said her appointment was based on her competences because she was a former deputy speaker in the Northern Bahr el Ghazal State Assembly.

She appreciated President Salva Kiir Mayardit and General Paul Malong who recommended her appointment as deputy speaker.

Aweil State is one of 28 states created by President Salva Kiir by decree but challenged as unconstitutional by a coalition of opposition parties.

Monitors of the peace agreement have called the creation of the 28 states a “violation” of the peace agreement. Salva Kiir says the 28 states are the demand of the people.