TXET : Sudan’s Salav Kiir speech before first meeting of new govt

Sept 22, 2005 (KHARTOUM) — Following Sudan News Agency published text of speech by Lt. General Salva Kiir Mayardit, First Vice President on the first session of the Council of Ministers of the Government of National Unity:

“Dear Brothers and Sisters, Let me first congratulate those of you who are joining the government for the first time as well as those who have served in the former government on the trust bestowed upon them by the President. I am confident that all of you shall live up to this trust.

I shall be remiss if I do not acknowledge the work done in the service of our country by those who are leaving the government; and while I extend my thanks to them I wish them all the success in their future jobs or callings.

This government is the child of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) which is called for in article 2.5.1 of the Power Sharing Protocol. This article provide for the creation of a Government of National Unity reflecting the needs for inclusiveness, the promotion of national unity, the defence of national sovereignty and the respect and implementation of the peace agreement. So your job is clearly ascribed for you by the CPA, and it is a daunting job.

I need not bother you by reciting the articles of the CPA on the major duties of the Government of National Unity, but I urge you to read carefully the CPA. Peace and unity in the Sudan shall stand or fall on the diligent and rigorous implementation of the CPA. The two parties to the agreement, NCP and the SPLM have solemnly committed themselves to guarding and implementing the CPA. Doubtlessly, I hope those of you who belong to other political parties shall too abide by this commitment.

Dear Brothers and Sisters I am glad to notice, that this government incorporates representatives of a large number of the Sudanese political forces, both in the north and south. Much as the presidency wished to see the government encompassing all political forces in the country, if that did not happen, it was not for lack of trying. However, we should all be single-minded in ensuring a healthy democratic transformation in which the ground shall be leveled and governed by law for all the Sudanese people.

Dear Brothers and Sisters Although you are coming from different schools of thought and political ideologies, you are here united by your desire and will to serve your nation under the Interim National Constitution. So cooperation, mutual understanding and rigorous commitment to duty are keys to your success. The Sudanese people have high hopes and await results, so let us not fail them. I wish you all good luck in your new assignments. Thanks you all.”

(SUNA)