By William Madouk
The Constitution-Making Process is set to establish a fiscal federal system, gaining nationwide support for addressing resource management, local development, and service delivery challenges. The National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) held a four-day workshop to determine the most suitable federal model. Minister of Federal Affairs Lasuba L. Wongo emphasized its importance for state reconstruction, economic reforms, and improved services.
“[we] are positioned at this historic moment to develop our permanent constitution. In this workshop, we are focusing on discussing fiscal federalism in various parts of the countries with their experiences being brought together to the people of South Sudan better to choose the best federal system in this country,” Wongo added.
Mr. Wongo explained that the National Dialogue conducted in 2016 – 2020 shows the public views on the root causes of the conflicts that hampered development and strongly optional federal system.
“The purpose of implementing a federal government system is to ensure lasting peace and stability in the country. Secondly, it is important to ensure unity in diversity,” he noted.
To him, the federal system would establish a practice of good governance, the rule of law, respect for fundamental human rights, transparency and accountability in the usage of public funds, and devolution of powers to lower levels.
In addition, the Chair of the National Constitutional Review Commission, Dr. Riang Yer Zuor, said, “Fiscal federalism is not new to the people of South Sudan. It’s enshrined in the document.”
He said they would embark on a nationwide public discourse to sensitize them on elements of federalism incorporated into a permanent constitution to effect equitable resource sharing and development.
“I would like to inform you that the commission, in collaboration with partners, is planning to launch the civic education and public consultation campaign before the end of this year,” Zuor added “This will be a one-day event to inform the people of South Sudan on what to expect.”
Dr. Kathrin Maria, managing director of Max Plank Foundation, stated that the workshop was for NCRC members to allow them to fulfill their role and mandate “and be involved toward crucial process in the making of the permanent constitution in South Sudan.”
The four-day workshop on fiscal federalism is organized by the National Conditional Review Commission and co-supported by the UN Mission in South Sudan and the Max Planck Foundation.
The occasion draws together both national and international experts to address the concept of fiscal federalism and which type of federalism is best for South Sudan as a nation.
South Sudan, through a decentralized government with some elements of federalism, has most of the powers concentrated at the central level, which is contrary to the federal system.
A week ago, the fourth high-level forum summit to shed light on fiscal devolution and revenue management in the country commenced and was graced by Vice President Dr. James Wani Igga.
This came amid clamor by the Council of States as oil-producing states and communities cried foul of the lack of the implementation of a 5 percent oil share.
State government officials and experts lamented power being controlled by the national government and urged more power devolution to states and administrative areas.
As the curtain falls on a high-level forum summit on fiscal devolution and revenue management, the participants adopted 33 recommendations that would address power devolution and wealth-sharing.
Guy Bennett
Chief of Political Affairs Division, UNMISS
Dr. Kathrin Maria Scherr. Managing Director, Max Planck Foundation
H. E Professor Joram Biswaro
Head of AU Mission
Dr. Riang Yer Zuor
Chairperson, NCRC