South Sudan President Salva Kiir Takes Action to Address Court Backlog

By Deborah Akur Chol, South Sudan

President Salva Kiir has mandated the newly appointed Minister of Justice, Michael Makuei Lueth, to prioritize the resolution of the court case backlog and to enhance the administration of justice throughout South Sudan.

During a swearing-in ceremony held on Wednesday in Juba, Kiir highlighted the critical need to fortify the nation’s justice system. “You must tackle the backlog of cases within the judiciary and strive to improve justice delivery for our people,” the President’s office stated.

The ceremony also included the swearing-in of several key officials, including Vice President Dr. James Wani Igga, Presidential Envoy to the Middle East Ambassador Monica Achol Abel Aguek, Minister of Information Ateny Wek Ateny, Minister of Roads and Bridges Peter Lam Both, Minister of Environment and Forestry Mabior Garang de Mabior, Central Equatoria State Governor Emanuel Adil Anthony, and Inspector General of Police Gen. Said Chawul Lom.

President Kiir urged all officials to dedicate themselves to enhancing service delivery and addressing the various social and economic challenges faced by citizens. He particularly stressed the importance of the Justice Ministry, asserting that a functional judiciary is vital for maintaining stability and protecting citizens’ rights.

Furthermore, Kiir tasked Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony with the responsibility of improving security in Central Equatoria State and instructed the new Presidential Envoy to the Middle East to promote South Sudan’s national interests through diplomatic avenues.

The President expressed hope that the newly appointed officials would bring fresh energy to government initiatives aimed at improving governance, strengthening the justice sector, and restoring public confidence in state institutions.