Bol Deng Bol, the Executive Director of INTREPID South Sudan, said the Jonglei State Legislative Assembly has remained closed for nearly a year. Lawmakers were initially sent on a three-month recess that has now stretched to approximately 11 months, leaving the state without a functioning legislative body.
“The Government of Jonglei State has, for a long time, been entirely run by the executive and judiciary arms of government,” Bol said. “Without a justifiable reason, the legislative arm has been kept away beyond the initial three-month recess for close to a year. This is unacceptable.”
According to Bol, the prolonged shutdown has left the executive and judiciary operating without adequate legislative oversight, raising concerns about transparency and checks on power.
He noted that a similar situation is unfolding in Unity State, where the absence of an active legislative assembly has sparked fears over the erosion of institutional checks and balances.
“Because of this, the government has been operating without accountability and proper oversight,” he said. “In both Jonglei and Unity states, civilians are often caught up in communal conflicts and ongoing military hostilities, and they bear the brunt of these crises.”
Bol urged the governors of the two states to prioritise the restoration of legislative functions, including the swift appointment of Speakers where necessary and the immediate reopening of the assemblies.
“This is beyond party politics,” he said. “Leaders must view the legislative assembly as an institution that serves the public interest, not partisan agendas.”
The appeal comes amid increasing calls from civil society groups for stronger governance structures and more inclusive political processes across South Sudan’s states, particularly in regions affected by recurring violence and humanitarian challenges.
