ISS Calls on Transitional National Legislative Assembly to Enact NSS Bill Without Delay

In a recent development concerning the stalled enactment of the National Security Service Act, Mr. Bol Deng Bol, the Executive Director of INTREPID South Sudan, emphasized the pressing need for immediate action. The National Constitutional Amendment Committee’s review of the 2014 Act, which was approved by the Council of Ministers but remains pending in Parliament, has raised significant concerns regarding the misuse of certain provisions detrimental to civic and political freedoms.

Mr. Bol highlighted the crucial objectives of the NSS Bill in aligning with the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan (TCRSS) 2011. Specifically, the proposed revisions seek to realign the Security Agency’s functions with article 159, focusing on information gathering, analysis, and advisory roles while addressing sensitive issues such as arrests with and without warrants as outlined in articles 54 and 55.

“The deliberate exploitation of these provisions has severely restricted civic and political spaces across the country, leading to unwarranted targeting of dissenting voices, media professionals, and civil society advocates,” noted Bol. 

The recent incidents involving the abductions of Molana Kalisto Wani in Juba, Mr. Moris Mabior in Nairobi, and Mr. Biar Ajak Marol in Juba serve as stark examples of the grave violations of democratic principles enshrined in the Transitional Constitution.

Calling upon the Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) to prioritize the swift enactment of the NSS Bill, Mr. Bol expressed confidence that once signed into law by the President, the legislation would significantly enhance civic and political freedoms crucial for the upcoming elections. 

He underscored the importance of safeguarding human rights, preserving democratic values, and creating a conducive environment where citizens can freely express themselves without fear of undue repression.

As the nation stands at a critical juncture, the expeditious passage of the NSS Bill is imperative to promote transparency, accountability, and respect for fundamental freedoms. The clarion call from civil society resonates with the collective desire for a more just, inclusive, and rights-respecting future in South Sudan. It is now incumbent upon the TNLA to act swiftly in ensuring the enactment of this vital legislation for the betterment of the nation and its people.