A workshop focused on local government in South Sudan was postponed due to security concerns raised by the National Security Service. Organized by the Ministry of Federal Affairs with JICA, the workshop aimed to discuss federalism’s implications for governance. The delay reflects growing political tensions following violent clashes and detentions among officials allied with Dr. Riek Machar.
A workshop organized by South Sudan’s Ministry of Federal Affairs to analyze the role of local government in a federal framework has been postponed due to technical issues. The event was originally set to commence on Wednesday in Juba and was in collaboration with the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and other partners. This initiative sought to investigate how local administrations would operate within a federal system that delegates authority between central and regional governments.
Lasuba L. Wongo, South Sudan’s Minister of Federal Affairs, stated that the postponement was recommended by security officials. He indicated, “There were issues that arose, and our security team advised that we adjourn this to another date. We are now coordinating with JICA to reschedule the event as soon as possible.”
Mr. Wongo underlined the workshop’s significance, asserting that it is integral to the ongoing efforts to formulate South Sudan’s permanent constitution. He also revealed that the Ministry intends to convene a national conference on federalism subsequent to the workshop. Originally, the first Vice President Dr. Riek Machar was expected to inaugurate the event.
However, sources informed Radio Tamazuj that the National Security Service (NSS) recommended postponing the workshop, indicating concerns regarding the appropriateness of holding the event at this time. The source remarked, “The National Security Service said today was not appropriate and that the workshop should be conducted on another day.”
The workshop’s delay occurs amid escalating political tensions in South Sudan. Recent violent clashes in Nasir, Upper Nile State, between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and those aligned with Dr. Machar have resulted in multiple fatalities, including a high-ranking military officer. Following these incidents, President Kiir’s government has detained several associates of Dr. Machar, raising alarms over the stability of the 2018 peace agreement that concluded a five-year civil conflict.
Discussions surrounding federalism remain a divisive topic in South Sudan, with ongoing debates regarding power and resource distribution between the central authority and local governments. The postponed workshop was viewed as a vital advancement in addressing these crucial constitutional matters. No official rescheduling information has been provided as of yet.
In conclusion, the postponement of the South Sudan workshop on federalism, initially spearheaded by the Ministry of Federal Affairs and marked for attendance by First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, highlights security concerns amid escalating political tensions. The rescheduling of this significant event is crucial for continuing discussions on local governance and constitutional processes within the nation. The stability of recent peace agreements remains uncertain as the nation grapples with challenges in governance and power-sharing.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
