A workshop organized by South Sudan’s Ministry of Federal Affairs to discuss local government roles in a federal system has been postponed due to security concerns. Minister Lasuba L. Wongo confirmed the decision, emphasizing the workshop’s role in advancing constitutional discussions. Rising political tensions following recent violent clashes also contributed to the postponement. A new date for the workshop has yet to be announced.
A workshop hosted by South Sudan’s Ministry of Federal Affairs, focusing on the role of local government in a federal system, has been postponed due to technical issues. This event was scheduled to take place on Wednesday in Juba, collaborating with the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and other organizations, to explore local governance under federalism.
Lasuba L. Wongo, South Sudan’s Minister of Federal Affairs, informed Radio Tamazuj that the postponement followed advisement from security officials. He stated, “There were issues that arose, and our security team advised that we adjourn this to another date.” Efforts are being made to reschedule the event with JICA promptly.
Wongo underscored the significance of the workshop as a part of the initiative to draft South Sudan’s permanent constitution. The ministry has also indicated plans for a national conference on federalism in the aftermath of this workshop.
First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar was expected to inaugurate the session. However, sources indicated that the National Security Service (NSS) recommended delaying the workshop due to unspecified concerns about appropriateness on that day. Political tensions in South Sudan have been heightened, particularly following recent clashes that resulted in casualties and the detention of several of Machar’s allies.
The cessation of the workshop occurs amidst ongoing discourse regarding federalism, which is crucial in discussions on power-sharing between the central government and local authorities within the constitutional framework of the country. At present, a new date for the workshop has not been determined.
In summary, the postponement of the workshop concerning local governance in a federal system reflects the significant political tensions presently affecting South Sudan. The event’s importance lies in its contribution to both constitutional development and the discourse surrounding federalism. The Ministry of Federal Affairs will work with JICA to reschedule the workshop, with no specified new date established at this time.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
