Unity state, S. Sudan, opens third session of the legislative assembly

October 27, 2011 (BENTIU) – Unity state legislative assembly on Thursday opened its third session since the secession of South Sudan in July.

The opening session, themed on the formation of a democratic nation and the provision of services to the people of the State was attended by 48 members of the state legislature, state ministers and advisers.

The Unity state speaker, Simon Maguek Gai described it as “a great day for the current members of legislative assembly,” but expressed concern over cases of corruption.

The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement deputy chairman, Samuel Lony Geng, also described the main challenge in the state as corrupt government officials.

Geng reminded those assembled of the assurance of zero tolerance towards corruption, given by the president of South Sudan, Salva Kiir.

However, he explained that there had been reticence about reporting cases of governmental corruption for fear of becoming subject to persecution.

Mabeak Lang Bilkuey Parieng said that he denounced the ongoing conflicts the assembly, explaining his view that the development of South Sudan is contingent on unity and justice.

(ST)