What criteria used in formation of South govt?

Editorial, The Khartoum Monitor

Oct 25, 2005 — Whenever a government has to be formed, the interest of the public is always the overriding criteria because a government is an instrument for service delivery for the people. Otherwise, what would be the rationale for establishing a government?

However, it appears that a different criterion was used in the formation of the cabinet for South Sudan Government. The criteria seemed to have been to please individuals with positions rather than a cabinet for a strong government that will improve the lives of the beleaguered people of South Sudan. The result is that even people who do not deserve to run a ministry at all have been appointed.

This is disastrous for the people of South Sudan. It seems that no much groundwork was done to scientifically appoint high calibre people.

Well, it is useless crying over spilt milk. The most important thing now is what South Sudanese should expect from their government.

Will the government deliver on the critical issue of repatriation of refugees and Internally Displaced Persons? Will it lead the people through to the referendum? Will it unite the people? Will it de-marginalize the people through even development? Above all, will it live up to the main concern of the people about the implementation of the CPA (Comprehensive Peace Agreement) according to its spirit and letter?

Will the Government of South Sudan (GOSS) tackle the issue of education to reduce the high rate of illiteracy? Will it tackle the issue of isolation of South Sudanese from the realm of commerce and trade? In other words, will the GOSS strive to empower the local people to run their own economic activities rather than allowing traders from the north to dominate the market or the whole economic sectors? Will the GOSS strive to democratize the region?

There are many concerns and challenges, which the people of South Sudan hope to be resolved. Let us wait and see.