A Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) official has been suspended for three months over unauthorized payment adjustments, according to a document seen by Radio Tamazuj.
John Onorio, the Controller of TNLA, was found to have increased staff allowances to $100 per person instead of the approved $50, an action deemed a serious breach of financial regulations and administrative policies.
In a letter dated January 31, 2025, TNLA Clerk Kaku Ngong, stated that Onorio’s response to an earlier inquiry was unsatisfactory. Consequently, he has been suspended from February 1 to April 30, 2025 and is required to hand over all official documents, records, and assets under his responsibility before the close of business on January 31, 2025.
“Given the gravity of this matter and in line with TNLA administrative directives, you are hereby suspended from duty for a period of three (3) months,” the letter reads.
During the suspension, Onorio is barred from engaging in any official duties or accessing TNLA premises unless explicitly authorized.
Additionally, an internal review is ongoing to assess the full impact of the financial irregularity, and further disciplinary action may be considered.
The suspension raises concerns about financial transparency within parliament as South Sudan grapples with broader governance and accountability challenges.
There has been no official comment from Onorio regarding the suspension. The TNLA leadership, including the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, who were copied in the letter, have yet to make a public statement.
Observers note that this case could lead to stricter financial oversight within TNLA, prompting wider investigations into the legislative body’s management.
More details are expected regarding the extent of the financial breach and whether other officials were involved.