South Sudan denies plans for ‘lean government’

JUBA – South Sudan’s government information and communication minister Michael Makuei Lueth on Friday denied plans to reduce the size of the government, parliament, or presidency, following the ongoing Tumaini Initiative peace talks.

Makuei who is also the government spokesman clarified in a press conference held in Juba that discussions regarding restructuring key institutions were part of negotiation tactics, not final proposals.

“We want to confirm that what appeared on social media and was believed by some in South Sudan, regarding a lean government, was the position of the opposition during negotiations,” Makuei said.

“Negotiating positions are not final, and these proposals are now off the table.”

The senior government official emphasized the continuation of the current government structure.

“There will be no ‘lean government’ set up. The parliament, the executive, and the presidency will all remain as they are,’ he declared.

He added that discussions on power-sharing will occur later, towards the conclusion of the Tumaini talks.

Makuei also announced the government’s agreement to include Tumaini Initiative participants in the security and governance arrangements of the 2018 peace agreement.