Dozens of lawmakers in Western Equatoria State’s Legislative Assembly failed to appear for the opening session of the 1st Sitting without notice, prompting the Deputy Speaker to warn of disciplinary action amid concerns over accountability and governance.
Deputy Speaker Simon Peter Bandukuwe revealed Monday that only 62 of the assembly’s 100 members signed the attendance register, leaving 38 absent without justification. While the session met quorum requirements, Bandukuwe called the unexplained absences a “serious violation” of legislative rules that undermines public trust.
“Such absenteeism weakens the credibility of this House and silences the voices of the people these lawmakers represent,” he said.
Records show that of the missing lawmakers, one was on official duty, one had permission, three were on medical leave, two had died, and four had not yet been sworn in. The remaining 38 offered no explanation—raising questions about whether financial constraints, disengagement, or systemic dysfunction are to blame.
Bandukuwe acknowledged delayed salaries, transportation shortages, and lack of working materials as challenges but insisted that absenteeism without valid reason would no longer be tolerated.
“We will verify those genuinely unable to attend and identify those neglecting their duties,” he said. “If they fail to report, their salaries and privileges will be suspended.”
Some legislators, like Julia John, Chairperson of the Gender, Child, and Humanitarian Affairs Committee, suggested financial hurdles—including inaccessible bank funds—have hindered MPs, particularly those traveling from remote counties.
“Under the Acting Governor’s leadership, the system is stabilizing,” she said, referencing efforts by Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa.
Yet by Tuesday, only a few additional members had arrived, leaving 31 still absent, according to Acting Clerk Levi Taban Adlajen.
Political analyst Kumbogbia Benty condemned the trend, warning that unchecked absenteeism erodes faith in democracy.
“In any functioning legislature, unexcused absences warrant sanctions—salary deductions or suspensions,” he told Radio Tamazuj.
Deputy Speaker Bandukuwe said reforms—such as publicizing attendance records and enforcing stricter penalties—are under consideration, mirroring measures at South Sudan’s national parliament in Juba.
Civil society activist Udie Daniel urged MPs to prioritize their duties, noting that many civil servants work despite unpaid wages.
“Lawmakers are elected to debate policies, security, and development—not to disappear,” he said. “If they abandon their posts, who will hold the government accountable?”
The Western Equatoria State Legislative Assembly reconvened on 1 July following a yearlong recess.