Sudanese vice president appeals southern MPs to be united

Sept 29, 2005 (JUBA) — The First Vice-President and President of the Government of Southern Sudan, Lt. Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit appealed the southern MPs to stay united and fulfil the aspirations of the people of southern Sudan.

Salava Kiir made this appeal at the opening session of the Southern Sudan Legislative Assembly in Juba today.

In a press statement to Radio France International, SPLM Samson Kwaje said that Salav Kiir appealed to the unity of the people of southern Sudan. Also he appealed SPLM MPs to be united and keep their movement together “so that we can fulfil the aspirations of the people of southern Sudan”.

This is the first time in southern Sudan to have a multi parliament.

Kiir said that the major tasks of the government of southern Sudan include the provision of health, education, water and food services.

He stressed that Southern Sudan Government is committed to work in full transparency. Kiir announced that an institution will be set up to combat corruption in south Sudan, calling on the Southern Sudan Legislative Assembly to adhere to its supervisory role.

Kiir e said that the basic rights for citizens are guaranteed by the interim Constitution of the Republic of Sudan.

Members of the Southern Sudanese interim legislative council have elected James Wani Igga (SPLM) as the chairman of their council, and Tor Deng (National Congress) as its deputy during its meeting.

The opening session was attended by 147 out of 170 members
Addressing the council, Wani said that his election as Speaker is considered a great responsibility that he will shoulder with the members to serve the people of southern Sudan and support the democratic transformation and rehabilitation and protect the peace agreement.

(ST)