The Democratic Change Party Chairman Dr Lam Akol Ajawin has criticized and opposed the recent decision by President Salva Kiir and his two deputies to increase the number of presidential advisors to 19, which he says bloats the government at the top.

Akol made the remark on Monday at a news conference at the party office while commemorating the seventh Anniversary of the party, which was originally established as th SPLM Democratic Change party, but dropped the 'SPLM' last year.

Akol, who is also a member of the transitional cabinet, said that they will oppose the decision when it is brought for discussion.

“Our country is today facing the most difficult times in its history. Having been torn apart by a devastating civil war that has assumed tribal dimensions, the economy is sliding into the abyss, the civil servants have gone for more than two months without salaries and wages, and the need for humanitarian assistance is on the rise,” he said.

“Yet, what we hear is increasing the number of presidential advisors to 19 persons. This number was not more than five up to recently when the economy was in better in shape. It is a contradiction in terms to talk about the reducing government expenditure while the size of the government is getting bloated at the top,” Akol said.

He explained that his party will continue to work hard so that legal and constitutional reforms are effective. He added that the alliance will sit and discuss this issue in the coming days. “Yes, we are part of this government but we cannot hesitate to say the truth.”