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Juba – Al-Wadi Newspaper
The Government of Central Equatoria State has officially rejected the decision by the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA) to divide Juba into operational zones for taxpayer registration, stressing that the move was taken without prior coordination with state authorities and other relevant stakeholders.
The position was announced during the weekly State Council of Ministers meeting held on Thursday, chaired by Governor Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel. The council emphasized that the SSRA’s plan — which includes a door-to-door registration campaign targeting all business entities, service providers, and self-employed individuals — constitutes a clear violation of the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan.
In a press statement following the meeting, Acting Minister of Information and Communication, Jacob Aligo Lo-Lado, confirmed that the council unanimously rejected the decision, describing it as “unilateral and unconstitutional,” and called for its immediate withdrawal.
“Such decisions require formal consultations involving the Revenue Authority, the State Government, and the Juba City Council. Ignoring these institutions is a violation of Article 49 of the Transitional Constitution, which mandates respect for intergovernmental coordination and cooperation“, He added.
Limited Funding Approved for Road Projects
In a separate agenda item, the council reviewed a memorandum submitted by the State Ministry of Roads and Bridges requesting USD 8.3 million to complete the Terekeka–Tindilo–Tali road — a vital infrastructure project. The council approved only USD 220,594 to complete two bridges along the same route, while the remaining amount is to be included in the 2025–2026 fiscal year budget.
The ministry also proposed renaming itself to the “State Ministry of Transport, Roads, and Bridges.” However, the council deferred the proposal for further consultation and review.
Council Condemns Rape Incident, Orders Crackdown on Gangs
On the security front, the council strongly condemned a recent rape incident that occurred two weeks ago in the Gumba Shirikat residential area, describing it as a “heinous crime” committed by gang members.
Minister Aligo confirmed that security forces have launched targeted operations across several neighborhoods in Juba, arresting a number of young men suspected of gang involvement. He stated that all suspects are currently in police custody pending investigation. Those found innocent will be released, while individuals proven guilty will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
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