Warrap state appoints Chief Whip

October 16, 2012 (JUBA) – The governor of Warrap state, Nyandeng Malek Deliech, has appointed Simon Deng Mawien Aguet as new the government whip legislators told Sudan Tribune on Tuesday.

Deliech was voted in as South Sudan’s first female governor in May 2010.

Aguet was appointed after the House passed legislation abolishing the position of controller of the house and creating the position of the government chief whip, on 9 October, in compliance to South Sudan’s Transitional Constitution.
 
Government Chief Whip is the third highest ranking position in the parliament, coming directly after Deputy Speaker. While Speaker and the Deputy are elected by the house, the Chief Whip is appointed by the president in case of the National Parliament and governors in case of state parliaments. 

What the Aguet’s role will entail is not yet clear; legislators have given various definitions of the constitutional functions and duties assigned to the position.

Ariec Mayar Ariec, a member of Warrap of Legislative Assembly, on Tuesday confirmed the appointment of the Chief Whip to the state assembly, describing him as a “veteran and long serving member” of the South Sudan’s governing Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM).

Ariec said Aguet “deserved” the role because, “he has been the head of the parliamentary caucus for members of the SPLM in the house since 2005. Another reason is his background; he is a veteran military officer. He fought in the first war. He fought in Anyanya I and also in the SPLA [former rebels and now the South Sudan army]. He is loyal and committed member of our party.”

Ariec explained that the government chief whip oversees the performances of members of the ruling party in the house and acts as go-between the members with the party and executive.

Aguet also confirmed his appointment but told Sudan Tribune he cannot make any comments on the matter until such time when he is sworn in and assumes his assigned constitutional duties and tasks.

(ST)