The Lakes State Revitalized Transitional Assembly in Rumbek on Monday recommenced work with Governor Rin Tueny Moabor presiding over the opening of its third parliamentary session.
The speaker of the Lakes State parliament, Agum Jacob Chagai who belongs to the grouping of the Other Opposition Parties (OOP), however, opened her speech by expressing her disappointment and frustration with the state government’s leadership for denying her the opportunity to give a speech during the recent celebrations to mark South Sudan’s twelfth Independence Day anniversary at the Rumbek Freedom Square.
“This marks the third time I have been denied the chance to speak, including during the visits of President Salva Kiir and Vice President Hussein Abdelbagi Akol,” she charged. “Most recently, I was denied the opportunity to address the public rally held in Rumbek Freedom Square on the twelfth anniversary of South Sudan’s Independence Day.”
The speaker also tasked the governor to address the welfare of state parliamentarians.
“One of our MPs suffered a serious accident resulting in a broken leg and is currently at home without receiving necessary treatment. Furthermore, several other MPs are facing severe health challenges but lack the resources to seek medical treatment abroad,” Chagai said, adding, “Additionally, we are confronted with challenges such as the lack of clean drinking water due to the assembly having only one functioning borehole, as well as the absence of proper offices and mobility.”
Responding to the speaker, Governor Rin Tueny Mabor appealed to the parliamentarians to be patient until the new fiscal budget is approved by the national parliament in Juba.
“I empathize with the speaker’s concerns. In 2021 and 2022, there were similar circumstances involving one MP and one minister. The ability to address these issues is contingent upon budget allocations. Unfortunately, the national government operates under a flawed top-down budgeting system. They impose a so-called budget ceiling which is perilous because it restricts action without providing adequate resources,” he explained. “Can we claim to be a functioning government without a budget? Reform demands substantial efforts, but once rectified, it will enable us to address issues such as clothing, healthcare, and all other necessities.”
“We have engaged extensively in Juba regarding the budget and they have assured us that the process will be reversed, allowing bottom-up budgeting rather than top-down,” Gen. Tueny added.
He urged the MPs to prepare the people for peace and the forthcoming general elections.
“We must prioritize peace in Lakes State and across the country. This is our collective responsibility. The peace agreement is progressing well but any shortcomings in its implementation are directly linked to budgetary constraints,” he enlightened. “For instance, if there are gaps in security arrangements and the deployment of unified forces, it ultimately traces back to the budget.”
The governor also urged the lawmakers to address the concerns of civil servants diligently.
“We cannot overlook the plight of civil servants and it is essential to conduct thorough assessments,” he emphasized. “Civil servants face delays in receiving their monthly salaries. As representatives, it is crucial to advocate for their rights, particularly regarding compensation and allowances.”
Meanwhile, Daniel Gumwil Nhomabur, a legislator who represents the Atiaba constituency in Rumbek East County, gave a speech on behalf of his colleagues and said that while security has improved across the state, there are still pockets of armed youth engaging in cattle theft and robberies along the roads.
“We call upon you, Mr. Governor, to intensify your efforts in addressing the small groups of individuals who continue to undermine security in Lakes State. They must be held accountable,” he said. “We commend your leadership for effectively tackling insecurity. The people of Lakes State now feel safe and travelers from Juba to Lakes State are experiencing peaceful journeys.”
“The government comprises three pillars comprising the executive, legislature, and judiciary and we must work together to ensure the smooth operation of the state,” Gumwil added.
He also highlighted the challenges faced by the state lawmakers including the lack of suitable facilities, limited mobility, and insufficient office space in the state assembly.
Gumwil urged the governor to improve the working environment at the state assembly.