By Emmanuel Mandella

In a historic move hailed by lawmakers and government officials alike, the Western Equatoria State Council of Ministers has approved a long-anticipated emoluments bill aimed at increasing allowances for constitutional post-holders, marking a pivotal shift in the state’s governance structure amidst ongoing economic challenges across South Sudan.

The announcement was made by Hon. David Paulino Simbi, the State Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports, who also doubles as the Acting Minister of Cabinet Affairs.

Simbi tabled the bill before the State Transitional Legislative Assembly on Monday, describing it as a timely intervention during one of the country’s most difficult financial periods.

“This has been a long-awaited move since the previous authority. Under the leadership of Acting Governor Daniel Badagbu, a committee was formed. It has finally produced a fair emoluments package that reflects the economic hardship our members are facing,” Simbi said.

“This package will restore dignity and morale among the lawmakers and executive members.”

The Council of Ministers, during its regular meeting in March 7th, unanimously approved the committee’s report with amendments, officially endorsing the new emolument structure.

The bill now moves to the Economic Development Committee at the state Assembly for scrutiny before final approval and enactment into law.

For years, constitutional post-holders in Western Equatoria State have worked without a formal employment act, leaving many without proper compensation and operational budgets.

Hon. Mary Sungu Yoere, Chairperson of Information and Communication at the Western Equatoria Transitional Legislative Assembly, expressed elation at the bill’s progress.

“We have been working without any employment act without our rights being respected. Today, with this bill passed and soon to be signed into law, we will finally begin implementing the responsibilities within our domain effectively,” Sungu said.

“It will only take seven days. By next Monday, the acting governor will sign it into law. We expect the budget to follow immediately.”

Looking at the impact of this bill on Governance and Service Delivery, the new emoluments package is not just about salaries.It is a move aimed at enhancing government performance.

Some experts believe the move could positively impact service delivery, accountability, and boost morale.

According to a 2024 World Bank report, South Sudan’s public sector productivity remains among the lowest in Sub-Saharan Africa, in part due to inadequate compensation and lack of operational budgets.

Proper emoluments could reduce absenteeism, increase commitment, and strengthen checks and balances in governance.