(JUBA COUNTY) – Lawmakers in South Sudan have raised fresh concerns over unpaid salaries for civil servants and organised forces, warning that continued delays are placing strain on households, commercial banks, and overall economic confidence.
Boutrus Alison Magaya, Member of Parliament for Maridi County in Western Equatoria State, told the Transitional National Legislative Assembly that many public workers went through the Christmas period without receiving their salaries, despite assurances from the government that payments would be made.
He said the salary delays had worsened financial hardship for families and highlighted wider liquidity problems in the banking sector. According to him, even those who receive payments often struggle to access their money due to cash shortages in commercial banks.
Magaya told the House that lawmakers had earlier requested that key economic officials be summoned to explain the situation, but no action was taken. He said the issue remained unresolved despite ongoing revenue inflows to the government, raising questions about public financial management.
The concerns come after a Cabinet meeting in December, chaired by President Salva Kiir, where ministers announced plans to establish a mechanism to clear salary arrears for civil servants and organised forces. The announcement raised expectations among workers who had gone several months in 2025 without pay.
Magaya formally raised the matter under parliamentary Procedure 97 on non performance, questioning why salaries remain unpaid while government revenues continue to be collected. He said the delays were affecting morale within the public service and the organised forces, with possible implications for service delivery and stability.
Responding to the concerns, Deputy Speaker for Administration and Finance, Parmena Awerial Aluong, urged Magaya to submit the issues in writing so that Parliament could take formal action. He said the House has the authority to summon the Minister of Finance, the Governor of the Central Bank, and the National Revenue Authority to explain why salaries have not been paid and how public funds are being managed.
Awerial stressed that parliamentary procedure must be followed to ensure accountability. He noted that similar summons had been issued in the past and that ministers had previously promised swift action after presenting figures on revenue and expenditure needs.
The debate reflected growing frustration within the legislature over delays in salary payments and the broader management of public finances. Lawmakers said resolving salary arrears is critical not only for the welfare of civil servants and organised forces, but also for restoring public confidence in the economy.
Economists note that unpaid wages reduce household spending, weaken demand in local markets, and add pressure on banks already facing liquidity challenges.
