Outgoing British Ambassador to South Sudan, David Ashley, has urged the government to reallocate funds from 900 vehicles for outgoing lawmakers to health, education, and youth development. The vehicles were estimated to cost $85 million. Ashley made the remarks during his farewell speech in Juba, expressing concern over the government's spending priorities. He emphasized the need for the government to focus on its young population.
Ashley highlighted the government's failure to contribute $10 million to the Health Systems Transformation Project, a World Bank-led initiative supporting 85% of the country's functioning health facilities. In contrast, the UK contributed $26 million to the project last year. The ambassador's comments come as the government faces criticism for its handling of public finances. Ashley's statement has sparked debate on the government's spending priorities.
The ambassador argued that South Sudan's young population, with half under 18 and 72% under 30, presents an opportunity for growth. However, this requires investment in health, education, and youth opportunities. Ashley urged the government to redirect its limited public resources toward its young population. He emphasized that investing in children and youth would be more beneficial than allocating funds for vehicles for outgoing MPs.
Ashley called for improved management of public finances, including prompt payment of salaries and increased government allocations to health and education. He stated that the UK would continue to press for progress on public finance management. The ambassador also mentioned that the UK would support efforts to track down stolen public resources and sanction those responsible.
The envoy warned that poorly prepared elections could lead to further violence. He urged the country to ensure an inclusive, peaceful, and credible electoral process. Ashley emphasized that democracy is a process, not an event. The UK, he stated, wants to see elections in South Sudan, but they must be genuinely inclusive and peaceful.
Ashley echoed the call of the African Union Commission and the region for inclusive, peaceful, and credible elections in South Sudan. He noted that winner-take-all elections can lead to more violence if poorly prepared. The ambassador stressed the importance of opening up political and civic space for voters to freely participate in the upcoming election.
The UK envoy concluded by emphasizing the need for an inclusive electoral process. This includes allowing people in all regions to register and vote, as well as enabling all major parties to participate freely. Ashley's comments come ahead of the December election, and his farewell remarks have sparked a renewed debate on South Sudan's priorities.
Key points
- The UK envoy urged the South Sudan government to prioritize health, education, and youth development over allocating $85 million for vehicles for outgoing lawmakers.
- The government had pledged to provide 900 vehicles for Members of Parliament at an estimated cost of $85 million.
- Ashley emphasized the need for an inclusive, peaceful, and credible electoral process ahead of the December election.
