The first deputy Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) on Wednesday urged lawmakers to uphold the spirit of resilience as South Sudan moves closer to its first general elections, saying greater opportunities await them despite the challenges facing the country.
The call comes amid declining attendance during parliamentary sessions, with some lawmakers seeking permission, others taking leave, while transportation and other challenges may also be affecting participation in the sittings.
Ambrose Lomin Pitia, Deputy Speaker of the TNLA, who chaired Wednesday’s session, called on lawmakers to remain resilient and committed to their responsibilities at a critical time for the country.
“Honorable members, I am shocked and bleeding in my heart,” he said. “In my communication, I said that when a child is about to be born, the mother will experience too much pain.”
Lomin used the analogy to describe the difficulties South Sudan is likely to experience as it approaches the elections, saying challenges are inevitable during a period of major political transition.
He urged lawmakers not to allow the difficulties to weaken their commitment to their legislative duties, emphasizing the need for perseverance as the country prepares for the polls.
“Your presence today clearly shows that there are people who really love this Country,” he said. “I want to send this message to you: continue, do not stop.”
The deputy speaker’s remarks come as the TNLA continues to deliberate on key legislation and national issues ahead of the anticipated December elections. He said the current challenges should be viewed as part of the difficult process of preparing the country for an important political milestone.
With South Sudan approaching its first general elections since independence, lawmakers are expected to play a key role in providing the legal and institutional framework necessary for the electoral process.
Lomin therefore appealed to members to remain present and resilient, despite the difficulties, as the country navigates the final stages toward the elections.
“I want to bring to your notice that sometimes when our ministers see that members are not attending, they also do not come,” he stated. “But we want them to come so that they see the suffering of our people and the reason why they are not attending.”
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