By Alan Clement
The Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) on Tuesday postponed a much-anticipated sitting on South Sudan’s territorial integrity after several ministries failed to present the required reports.
The session, which was convened following a parliamentary motion passed on August 20, was expected to feature written submissions from ministers of the Transitional Government of National Unity (TGONU) concerning the Republic of South Sudan’s borders and territorial integrity.
However, the Office of the Clerk announced the adjournment, stating that the reports required for deliberation were incomplete and unavailable.
A statement from the Assembly’s clerk said the adjournment was necessary due to the “unavailability of sufficient reports” from summoned government institutions.
Among those expected to appear were the Minister in the Office of the President, the Minister of National Security, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, and the Minister of Land, Housing and Urban Development.
While the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Interior and Defence, along with the Chairperson of the Joint Sudan–South Sudan Boundary Commission, were present, deliberations could not proceed without comprehensive reports from all parties.
The motion, tabled by Dr. Ghada James Killa during the TNLA’s 8th Ordinary Sitting, sought to affirm South Sudan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity as defined by the 1956 boundaries calling for expedited border demarcation, production of an official national map to be enshrined in the permanent constitution, and strengthened diplomatic and security cooperation with neighboring states.
“Clear and secure borders are essential for the stability and development of our nation,” Dr. Ghada stated during the August sitting. “By affirming our territorial integrity and working towards well-defined and secure borders, we can enhance regional cooperation, prevent conflict, and focus on socio-economic development,” she added.
The motion had received broad support from lawmakers, who emphasized the urgency of resolving longstanding boundary disputes and formalizing territorial claims amid regional tensions. It also directed the Assembly to summon relevant ministries and technical committees to provide written reports on their efforts to address border issues.
No new date has been announced for the rescheduled sitting but the Office of the Clerk indicated that the TNLA leadership and members will be informed once the required reports are submitted in full.
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