South Sudan Constructors Oppose Diverting Oil Funds for Civil Servant Salaries

By Fuli Dickens Isaac

The Association of South Sudan Constructors has spoken out against the proposed redirection of oil funds meant for infrastructure development to pay civil servants and army salaries. The decision, supported by Honorable Changkuoth Bichiock, has sparked controversy within the economic cluster and standing specialized committee on finance and economic planning in the TNLA.

Chairman of the association, Malish Martin Joseph, expressed grave concerns that such a move would hinder crucial infrastructure development projects in the country. In a press conference, he emphasized the negative long-term consequences of canceling the oil for infrastructure program, warning that it could lead to the collapse of numerous constructors and suppliers in the road infrastructure sector.

Martin stressed the importance of addressing the immediate financial crisis facing South Sudan but argued that maintaining the integrity of the oil for infrastructure program is vital for sustainable national development. He called for proactive and comprehensive reforms to ensure that the program remains effective and aligned with its original purpose.

“We are advocating for proactive and comprehensive reforms that will ensure that the oil for infrastructure program is effective, sustainable, and meets its original purpose,” said Martin Joseph, chairperson of the Association of South Sudan Constructors.