By Matik Kueth
The Vice President for the Economic Cluster, Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, has appealed to lawmakers to abandon political routine and embrace a reform-driven, people-centered approach to legislation.
In a meeting with Jemma Nunu Kumba, Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA), on Wednesday, Dr. Mel emphasized that the time for symbolic lawmaking is over.
The country, he warned, is demanding a Parliament that delivers not only in words but in tangible results.
“We cannot afford to legislate for the sake of formality; it’s time to lead with purpose, discipline, and results,” he stated.
Mel pushed for a new legislative mindset grounded in practical impact, as mounting pressure on the NTLA to address urgent national issues, including institutional reforms, service delivery, and economic recovery.
“Our laws must reflect the realities and dreams of our citizens. That’s where our true strength as a nation lies,” he said.
He stressed that Parliament must focus on laws that translate vision into action, prioritizing enforceability and outcomes over political performance.
“Let’s stop writing laws that gather dust, let’s craft ones that drive change in people’s everyday lives,” he challenged.
Speaker Kumba acknowledged the call and reaffirmed the TNLA’s commitment to meaningful reform and inclusive governance.
“We are not just passing laws, we are shaping the future of South Sudan, with transparency, accountability, and the people at the center of everything we do,” she affirmed.
She underlined the ongoing internal efforts to make the legislative process more effective, including the review of outdated laws, strengthening oversight, and expediting key bills that directly impact communities.
However, both leaders agreed on the need for closer collaboration between the legislative and executive branches to implement reforms, strengthen institutions, and rebuild public trust in government.