Jonglei state assembly speaker tells lawmakers to understand the constitution

July 7, 2010 (BOR) – The Speaker of Jonglei State Legislative Assembly, Peter Chol Wal, told lawmakers in Bor on Wednesday to read and understand the state interim constitution.

Speaking during a swearing in ceremony of Athoc North Constituency winner, Kuol Bol Ayom, and John Jal Thiec at the State Assembly Hall, Speaker Chol Wal also cautioned his colleagues to be more “honorable” and classified.

Wal likened a lawmaker who does not understand the constitution to untrained civilian who turns soldier “and cannot therefore cock a gun”.

“You (MPs) must be really honorable by avoiding rumoring like spreading [allegation] of corruption in state ministries. Please, first investigate from right sources,” he added.

INAUGURAL PLEDGES

The inauguration of Mr. Kuol Bol (Athoc North Constituency 27, Independent) and John Jal (Ayod, UDF Party list) bring to five lawmakers who are not members of the Southern Sudan ruling party in the 48 member assembly.

Speaking shortly after the taking of oath of office, Kuol Bol, calls for the unity of the State Assembly because “time is running short for 2011 referendum public education.”

“For our people to be sure of what to do and how they should vote, we need to launch referendum campaigns for separation,” he said.

He claims his constituency prefers “the other side of the coin [separation] because unity is not longer attractive.”

Bol defeated SPLM candidate, Daniel Deng Kut – who is now the chairperson for Jonglei anti-corruption commission, in June 5—6, 2010 election rerun but pledges a U-turn after electoral victory to the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) that rules the semi-autonomous South.

Gabriel Gai Riem, Jonglei minister for parliamentary affairs and Peter Agany, President of high court also attended the sitting.

(ST)