Officials presented a variety of views on South Sudan joining the East African union.
The East African Community (EAC) is a regional intergovernmental union of the republics of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ruanda and Burundi.Yesterday a panel of specialists discussed the pros and cons of belonging to the EAC in Bakhita Radio.
Elija Malok Aleng, former Governor of the Central Bank, said South Sudan informally accepted the EAC because citizens from East African countries are running almost all businesses in the country.
He added that South Sudan should formalise the joining of the EAC by signing the treaty.
Democracy and governance specialist Daniel Wuor Joak argued that it is not yet time to join the EAC because South Sudan does not have a competitive industry.
He added that the free movement of people and goods would not benefit South Sudan.
Mr. Wuor suggested that South Sudan should sign as associate membership and later on when it develops it should apply for full membership.
Vice Chairman of South Sudan Business Union Agrey Esbon said there is no problem in joining the EAC because all economic activities in South Sudan are done in partnership with East Africa.
He stressed that South Sudan should initiate and intensify its production of goods.
Mr. Esbon added that lack of productivity is to blame for the very high prices of goods in the country.
The three officials were talking yesterday in Bakhita Radio during the weekly programme “Our Republic.”