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Sudan Tribune

Plural news and views on Sudan

South Sudan seeking strategy to halt use of IDP camps by rebel sympathisers

April 21, 2015 (JUBA) – The South Sudanese government is seeking to devise a strategy that will halt the use of camps for internally displaced people by conflict-affected citizens perceived to be sympathetic the rebels led by the former vice-president Riek Machar.

People gather at a makeshift camp for displaced people at a UN compound in South Sudan's capital, Juba, on 22 December 2013 amid fears for further violence (Photo: AFP/Tony Karumba)
People gather at a makeshift camp for displaced people at a UN compound in South Sudan’s capital, Juba, on 22 December 2013 amid fears for further violence (Photo: AFP/Tony Karumba)
While opening parliament on Monday, president Salva Kiir asked MPs to approve a bill to regulate the work of humanitarian organisations in the country.

He accused some organisations of providing shelter to people who sought protection.

“There was no reason for people to run into the camps,” said Kiir in reference to the United Nations protection of civilian sites whose inhabitants depend on relief agencies.

According to Kiir, the present humanitarian crisis in the nation require the urgent passage of the bill, given the numerous numbers of non-governmental organisations.

“This NGOs bill shall organise and regulate the work and activities of this various organizations which are working without government supervision”, he said.

Activists expressed mixed reactions over the president’s call, with many saying the new bill would restrict activities of the relief entities and limit their operational work.

However, security organs say it would allow relevant public institutions and departments to provide supervisory role and guides in a way that safeguards the security and safety of people, the nation and protect these humanitarian workers.

(ST)

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