Parliamentarians in Bentiu ready to work in partnership with 17Թ to restore peace
The Speaker of the State Legislative Assembly in Bentiu is encouraging the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (17Թ) to help to build the capacity of Members of Parliament as part of the peacebuilding effort.
Speaking at a forum organised by 17Թ’ Civil Affairs Division, the Hon. Simon Lieyliey said that parliament was ready to work with 17Թ to restore peace. He said that the provision of workshops to build the skills of MPs would benefit that process because “legislatures are lawmakers who need to be trained.”
The State Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement Agencies, the Hon. Joseph Bajuoy Makuet echoed the call to build a strong relationship between politicians and 17Թ to ensure the protection of the people of South Sudan.
The forum in Bentiu focused on explaining 17Թ’ mandate to protect civilians and build durable peace through advancing reconciliation efforts, strengthening mechanisms to settle conflicts peacefully, and promoting national cohesion. A key part of the discussion was about the role that legislators can play in managing conflict in their constituencies.
The Officer in Charge at 17Թ in Bentiu, Victor Fasama, said it was important for legislators to understand the Mission’s role as an impartial partner working with the people of South Sudan. He also stressed the need for MPS to play a more active role in conflict management.
