S. Sudan: world leaders welcome newly-named cabinet
August 2, 2013 (JUBA) – World leaders have welcomed the formation of South Sudan’s new government, a week after it was dissolved by its leader, Salva Kiir.
In a joint statement extended to Sudan Tribune, the US, Norway, Canada, the European Union, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, all pledged to work with the new ministers, should they be approved by the country’s law makers.
On Friday, however, a special session convened to vet and approve the newly appointed minister did not reach a consensus, opting to reschedule the process to a later date.
Some MPs wondered why the new list of ministers still comprises of all faces, some of who are accused allegedly failing to deliver, while serving the nation.
There were also calls for the provision of personal resumes and mandatory background checks of appointed cabinet members to be vetted by the house before final approval.
Meanwhile, United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) equally expressed its readiness to work with the new government in its efforts to advance South Sudan’s reform agenda, including combating corruption; transforming the security sector; and providing essential services to the people.
The mission, however, urged the new cabinet to work towards protecting civilians, and strengthening core state institutions, as well as political milestones related to constitutional review and the holding of free and fair national elections.
“In this regard, the Mission is urging the new Cabinet to do its utmost to forge national unity and solidarity and respect the rights of all South Sudanese citizens,” partly reads the UNMISS statement.
(ST)