South Sudan bans national metrological body

July 14, 2007 (JUBA) — The Government of Southern Sudan (GoSS) has ordered yesterday the Sudan Standards and Metrological Organization (SSMO) to stop operating in the South with immediate effect, the UN sponsored radio Miraya reported.

The GoSS Minister of Commerce, Trade and Supply, Anthony Lino Makana, accused the (SSMO) of trespassing the powers of the government of southern Sudan. He further said that SSMO has to develop a clear operational framework compatible with his ministry on matters concerning grades and standards prior to establishing offices in Southern States.

He also accused it of failing to take on its proper metrological duties, and implement standards of metrological work.

The Sudan Standards and Metrological Organization was established in the 1970s to control Sudan Custom’s Union, but attempts to revive its activities in South Sudan has not been popular.

Its members have been accused on implementing high custom charges in Kenya, a Uganda-Sudan border customs post, and in Malakal.

(Miraya)