A civil society organization has appealed to the governments of Jonglei and Unity states to urgently reopen their legislative assemblies, saying that prolonged closures are undermining accountability and effective governance.

Bol Deng Bol, Executive Director of INTREPID South Sudan, said the Jonglei State Legislative Assembly has remained closed for nearly a year, after lawmakers were sent on recess that was to last three months but has now stretched to about 11 months.

He said the extended shutdown has left the executive and judiciary arms operating without sufficient legislative oversight.

“The Government of Jonglei State has, for a long time, been entirely run by the executive and judiciary arms of government,” Bol said.

“Without a justifiable reason, the legislative arm has been kept away from a three-month recess for now, close to a year. This is unacceptable,” he added.

According to the statement, a similar situation is unfolding in Unity State, where the absence of a functioning legislative body has raised concerns about the lack of checks and balances.

Bol argued that the prolonged closures have weakened institutional accountability at a time when both states are grappling with insecurity and communal violence.

“Because of this, the government has been operating without accountability and proper checks and balances,” he said.

“In both Jonglei and Unity States, civilians are often caught up in communal conflicts and ongoing military hostilities, in which they bear the ultimate brunt of these afflictions.” Bol adds.

Bol appealed to the governors of the two states to prioritize the restoration of legislative functions.

He urged them to expedite the appointment of a Speaker and reopen the assemblies without further delay.

“This is beyond party politics, Politicians and leaders ought to view the legislative assembly as an institution that serves the public interest, not partisan agendas,” Bol stated.

The appeal comes amid growing calls from civil society actors for stronger governance structures and inclusive political processes in South Sudan’s states, particularly in regions affected by recurring violence and humanitarian challenges.