Lakes state MPs boycott swearing-in of new cabinet

January 13, 2015 (RUMBEK) – Lawmakers from Lakes state on Monday boycotted the swearing-in of new ministers appointed by the caretaker governor, Matur Chut Dhuol.

Only relatives and friends attended the state secretariat swearing-in ceremony.

Dhuol, in his address, encouraged the newly appointed ministers to deliver services to population and help quell down rising insecurity.

“I call upon state and international media operating in Rumbek to preach for peace and reconciliation instead of projecting negative image of Lakes state,” he said.

Lakes state government has been criticised for attacking media freedom, as journalists considered critical of the state have either been arrested or detained by authorities.

Last week, Dhuol was openly criticised following the appointment of his cabinet. The critics, mainly youth and the elderly, questioned the composition of the new cabinet.

They claimed Wuol Agang Madhel, the new youth and sports minister lacks experience.

(ST)