Kumba accuses SPLM-IO lawmakers of disrespect, lack of tolerance

JUBA – The Speaker of South Sudan’s Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA), Jemma Nunu Kumba, on Tuesday accused lawmakers from the main opposition group, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In-Opposition (SPLM-IO), of disrespect and a lack of tolerance.

The accusation stemmed from an incident where some legislators disregarded Kumba’s instructions to be seated while she explained the reasons for a delay in tabling a report on the construction of the Juba-Rumbek highway.

Speaking during a parliamentary session on Tuesday, Kumba who is a member of the ruling SPLM-IG led by President Salva Kiir Mayardit, said the behavior of certain SPLM-IO members violated the conduct of parliamentary business regulations of 2022.

Kumba who is also the first woman to be speaker of the country’s parliament explained that the regulations stipulate that order must be maintained when the speaker calls for it, and that no one should speak while the speaker is addressing the house.

“My colleagues from the SPLM-IO, I stand before you as the speaker for everyone. I expect respect from all of you, whether it’s Right Honorable Cornelio or Right Honorable Oyet,” she said, cautioning the opposition legislators against bringing community conflicts into the assembly.

“The people of this country expect us to be a symbol of unity. We cannot import our local disputes into the National Assembly,” she added.

Kumba also urged members to respect her position as speaker for all members.

“We all respect the speaker. I will not tolerate any SPLM-IO member disrespecting a leader from another party who is rightfully authorized by the agreement or the constitution to hold that position,” she said.

“Respect the rights of those who don’t belong to our party. Look at other parliaments where fighting erupts – that’s not the way to conduct business. It shows a lack of tolerance,” she added.

The speaker concluded by cautioning against mistaking her calmness and fairness for weakness.

“You don’t tolerate other people’s opinions. That’s why people fight. There must be tolerance amongst ourselves. I have been fair in this house, giving everyone a chance to speak. Don’t take my kindness, calmness, and fairness for granted,” she added.