The Eastern Equatoria State Council of Ministers convened an extraordinary session, known as sitting number 11, to discuss the issue of 337 teachers and other civil servants allegedly deserting their workstations.
Following the session, Patrick Oting Cyprian, the state minister of Information and government spokesperson, addressed the media on Tuesday at the state palace, sharing the council’s decision to terminate the employment contracts of the accused individuals and readvertise their positions.
Minister Oting stated, “We have received reports of 337 deserters (teachers) across all eight counties. The Council of Ministers has unanimously resolved to terminate the employment contracts of these individuals and initiate the recruitment process to fill these vacancies with new teachers. Ensuring the uninterrupted education of children across the eight counties remains our priority.”
He further explained, “During this extraordinary session, which took place on the 18th of July, we agreed to terminate the employment contracts of all teachers who have deserted their workplace. This also includes staff members from other state institutions, including the Ministry of Information. Some of these deserters have been absent from their duty stations for more than five years. While their names are still listed in these institutions, they have not been seen or fulfilled their responsibilities. All these vacant positions will be advertised, and new individuals will be recruited to fill them.”
Expressing concern, Allam James Offis, a concerned youth, voiced his disagreement with the state government’s decision. He argued that notification should have been provided to all the teachers and civil servants who left their workplaces in search of better opportunities to support their families.
James believes that the current economic crisis has rendered government work unattractive to many citizens in the country. He stated, “This decision is not the right one. The government should consider the criteria and provide proper notification to these civil servants. If there is no notification for these individuals, how will the government handle their pensions? This issue may lead to court cases since some of the terminated employees have served in the state government for many years. It is the challenging economic times and low remuneration that have forced some of them to leave their posts. They cannot afford basic necessities with the wages they receive, making it difficult to support their children.”
He further elaborated, “Considering the skyrocketing prices in the market, the 2,000 SSP or 3,000 SSP that the director general received seven years ago is insufficient today. That amount was equivalent to 600 USD. With the current living standards, especially in Eastern Equatoria State, the current 3,000 SSP cannot meet basic needs. This applies to all government institutions.”
Meanwhile, Charles Onen Lokwaruk, the chairperson for the Civil Society Network in Eastern Equatoria State, also voiced his disagreement with the decision, emphasizing the need to make civil service jobs more attractive to citizens given the ongoing economic challenges.
“As a civil society representative, I am aware of the difficulties faced by government employees, particularly regarding their salaries. The pay is inadequate and often delayed. State civil servants have experienced up to six months without receiving their salaries. This economic crisis is a national problem, not limited to Eastern Equatoria State,” the activist stated.
“I urge the state government to reconsider its position. It is important to invite all the accused individuals who allegedly deserted their workplaces and investigate the circumstances. If these individuals refuse to resume their duties, then the government can proceed with terminating their employment contracts. However, it is crucial to recognize that these individuals have families and various responsibilities, such as school fees and providing food. Many people have left their jobs because government salaries are not paid on time,” Onen emphasized.