The National Legislative Assembly has endorsed the appointment of 18 cabinet ministers to run the affairs of government.

The Assembly did not approve Justice Minister Telar Riing Deng for lack of documents and experience pending further investigation.

Information Committee Chairperson Joy Kwaje Eluzai told the press shortly after closed-door deliberations that the Assembly passed 18 names and reserved one for further investigation and scrutiny.

She said the Assembly also endorsed nine names of deputy ministers recommended by the select committee and withheld endorsement of two others, one of which is on sick leave and the other who will be required to bring documents for scrutiny.

A select committee member Bungo Arok Ajouwit told the press that Telar Riing lacks documents and experiences to qualify him for approval.

The approved 18 ministers and nine deputies are legal to be sworn into office to start their duties immediately.

Report by Sudan Catholic Radio Network

Related: Kiir reverses his decree on presidential advisor after a meeting with SPLM MPs (Sudan Tribune, 3 August)

File photo: Honourable Members of the National Legislative Assembly, Juba, South Sudan