MPs sick as Speaker pushes for clothing, medical allowances in Western Equatoria

YAMBIO – Members of the Western Equatoria State Legislative Assembly are urging the state government to urgently settle pending clothing and medical allowances, warning that delays are affecting lawmakers’ welfare and ability to serve their constituents.

The call was made by the Speaker of the Western Equatoria State Legislative Assembly, Ann Tuna Richard, during an engagement with the state leadership.

She appealed directly to Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa to facilitate the payment of outfit (suit) allowances and medical support for Members of Parliament (MPs), saying many legislators are facing growing financial and health challenges.

According to the Speaker, several MPs currently have medical referral cases that remain unaddressed due to a lack of funding. She noted that these referrals are still pending in key government institutions, including the Ministry of Finance and Planning, the South Sudan Revenue Authority, and the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs.

Richard said the situation has become urgent, with some lawmakers reportedly in poor health and unable to access the care they need.

“Our colleague Hon. Monoko is currently in critical condition, and several MPs are sick. The payment of outfit and medical allowances will help support and motivate them to continue serving the people,” she said.

The Speaker urged the state government to treat the matter as a priority, stressing that addressing the welfare of legislators is important for the smooth functioning of the Assembly. She added that the timely payment of allowances would enable MPs to carry out their responsibilities more effectively in representing the people of Western Equatoria State.

The appeal comes as state institutions continue to grapple with financial constraints that have affected payments and service delivery across several sectors.

Responding during the engagement, Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa underscored the critical role of the State Legislative Assembly in maintaining governance and accountability within the state.

He said the work of government cannot function effectively without the legislature, noting that lawmakers play a central role in ensuring checks and balances as well as passing laws that guide the administration of the state.

Governor Rimbasa also emphasised the need for cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government, describing it as essential for promoting stability and effective governance in Western Equatoria.

The appeal by the Assembly leadership highlights growing concerns over the welfare of public officials in the state, particularly as some lawmakers struggle to access medical care while awaiting the settlement of their allowances.