Warrap state governor implicated in child neglect allegations
November 10, 2014 (JUBA) – Youth and activists in South Sudan’s Warrap state have petitioned governor Nyandeng Malek for allegedly abandoning her child as calls for her resignation intensifies.
“Under the 2008 child act, specifically chapter 3 section 39 (1) indicate the action of the governor Nyandeng as a clear violation of Child Act. She had given birth to a new born and we don’t know [why] she decided to abandon the child. The time is not right,” Mayen said.
He denied there was any political motive behind the petition.
“Our concern is purely on the humanitarian ground and the right of the child. If we were asking why she is bearing, then you would have had a point. We are saying she is a human and we therefore recognise her right to bear a child but our concerned now is the right of that small baby,” he added.
The activist further claimed governor Malek’s alleged decision to abandon her less than four months old baby sets a bad precedence for women in the border state.
Governor Malek has been out of office on maternal leave in Nairobi, Kenya and only returned to the country late last month. She however returned without her child.
Addressing a meeting of MPs and cabinet members last month, Malek acknowledged producing a baby boy and thanked the people of Warrap for their prayers.
“I thank the people of Warrap for getting a baby boy at the time I am serving as their leader. My four daughters now have their brother. I gave birth to a baby boy,” she said amid applause.
But several women and activists are dissatisfied with Malek’s decision to leave behind the child.
“If the environment she governed is unfriendly to children, she [should] tell us where to keep child for safety”, said Achan Malual from Gogrial East county.
Nyibol Agai from Tonj South county wondered why the governor decided to leave behind her new born baby, yet many women look to her as their role model in society.
Aluet Wol in Kuacjok, Gogrial West county said mothers often prioritise their children’s interest.
Sudan Tribune was unable to independently verify the motives behind the petition with the governor’s supporters and cabinet ministers describing it as a private matter.
“This is a complicated mix. On one hand, looking at the argument put forth by most our people in the state; you find substantive elements, although you can also find political motives. On other, you find cultural elements and human right stuff. So it is a difficult mix”, a cabinet minister told Sudan Tribune, but declined to further comment.
(ST)