JUBA – President Salva Kiir has reopened the transitional national legislative assembly ending a prolonged recess that was dictated by renewed political instability in the country.
MPs went on recess in December 2024 and were set to resume sessions in April this year, but a flareup of violence in many parts of the country and political detentions in Juba, forced many opposition lawmakers to run into hiding, leaving the parliament unable to meet its quorum.
Addressing lawmakers on Tuesday, July 16, President Kiir called on all parties to the 2018 peace agreement to recommit to completing the remaining transitional tasks without preconditions, as the country prepares for elections in 2026.
He also urged factions outside the peace process to join the government in the spirit of reconciliation, unity, and nation-building. He said opposition forces that embrace peace should be welcomed and integrated into a unified national army.
“The suffering of our people must not be prolonged by the continued rejection of dialogue,” Kiir said, as reported by Radio Miraya.
Cardinal Martin Ameyu Martin of the Catholic Archdiocese of Juba, who was in attendance, used the occasion to urge leaders to reject warmongering and embrace dialogue among South Sudan’s diverse communities.
Parliament Speaker Rt. Hon. Jemma Nunu Kumba highlighted the impact of delayed salaries and poor public services on local communities. She called for urgent government action to address these concerns.
Key tasks for this session include passing the annual budget, amending the election act, and addressing other critical bills as the country prepares for elections in December 2026.
