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July 17, 2010 (WUNROK) — The minister of Legal Affairs and Constitutional Development in the Government of Southern Sudan has defended his government’s position on combating corruption.
- John Luk Jok, South Sudan government Legal Affairs and Constitutional Development (GoSS Website)
John Luk Jok, a senior member of the SPLM led government of Southern Sudan (GoSS) defended his government’s records in the execution of the anti-graft crusade, saying all corruption related allegations have been given particular attention over the last five years.
In a press briefing with members of the media on Friday in Juba, minister Jok said GoSS has at all times possible paid particular attentions to allegations related to financial scandals and ill administrative practices.
One of the pledges made by president Kiir at the inauguration of Southern Sudan parliament following April elections was to vigorously fight against corruption, embezzlement of public property and abuse of public office. The government has made significant progress so far,” he further explained.
He said between 2005 and 2010, a period of 5 years, corruption allegations have been heard and swiftly dealt with to end speculations.
“This shows commitment of the government to fighting corruption and promoting good governance. This reflects our seriousness and commitment to the anti-graft war,” he said.
Minister Jok further added that during the last five years, disciplinary and legal measures were taken against all those who were implicated, adding that several laws were legislated by regional parliament to tighten the knot on corrupt elements in the society.
He said the Southern Sudan anti corruption commission is now having offices at almost at the level of all ten southern states and the institution has been given more financial muscle and qualified personnel.
"Measures are being taken against corrupt elements to demonstrate the political will and the commitment of the government in fighting corruption and promoting good governance," he said, adding that the judiciary body has been given a big boost to facilitate efficient administration of justice.
Jok further explained that between 2008 and 2009, South Sudan President has appointed over 10 justices of appeal, some of them are women and more than 51 high court judges, of whom over 24 of them are also women. The government also hired over 256 legal counselors, about 117 out of them are women and 394 primary court judges mostly at county levels, over 134 of them women, he added.
We have always supported the Judiciary, but refrained from interference in its operations. Due to budget constraints, he said, the judiciary has not been receiving enough funds to accomplish its objectives.
He revealed that there are plans to create a special fund for the judiciary in line with regional constitution provision. He told the press that Southern Sudan has registered over 31% from 25% per cent in 2005 of female representation in decision making bodies. “
"We have now seven new ministers in the regional cabinet and more would be appointed into other top civil services soon,” he explained.
"Today we have more women in both the regional, National Assembly, cabinet, states and county commissioners, directors and executive officers and most have proved to be competent," he said, adding that the Controller and Auditor General (CAG) office has been strengthened in terms of operations, personnel and facilities to enable it to tackle emerging challenges.
Kiir has directed anti corruption commission and police to act whenever the commission uncovers theft and embezzlement cases in any public office.
(ST)
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