By William Madouk
Northern Bahr El Ghazal State (NBGs) Transitional Legislative Assembly resumed business after a prolonged recess.
In his remark during the fourth session inauguration, Governor Simon Uber said, “i hope you were able to connect and share the ongoing national and state challenges with your respective constituents during the prolonged recess.”
He added that his administration is planning to hold an inclusive Aweil Community conference this year.
“I have already issued an order forming a high-level preparatory and technical committee for this purpose. This conference has been a long-standing demand of our people,” he added. “The conference will provide a platform to discuss present challenges and the future of our state.”
He assured a collegial working relationship between the executive and legislature during his tenure.
The governor urged the state assembly to combat graft in Northern Bahr el Ghazal to attain prosperity.
“We must collectively fight and eradicate this menace [corruption] in all institutions of government. This is the only way we shall ensure a future of prosperity for our people,” he noted.
He lauded the efforts by national government and humanitarian agencies in response to flooding and hunger crisis in the state, as he called for more humanitarian assistance support.
“I came to open your August House so that you may begin performing your legislative, representation and oversight functions. I will soon present a comprehensive policy statement of the state government to this House,” he said.
Meanwhile, Speaker Achol William Amoi stated that “i am so much excited today for the beautiful re-opening of session 4/2024.”
Mrs. Amoi underscored that the state assembly had completed the construction of five offices for standing specialized committees. She revealed the purchase of a new generator for assembly operation.
The speaker noted that MPs managed to pass budget and resolution stopping random surveys and banning star gins and spirited alcohol.
“With these few achievements, it shows that the remaining part of development particularly in the assembly will be continued or will be completed,” said Speaker Amoi.
Besides, the speaker decried the lack of mobility for chairpersons of standing specialized committees, computers and furniture for the offices of senior staff among others.
The State Transitional Legislative Assembly went on recess in April and was planned to resume in July.
However, in late June, President Salva Kiir appointed Simon Uber Mawut as Governor, replacing Tong Akeen Ngor.
The new governor reportedly requested the legislators to give him time before the assembly could resume.