Members of political parties and civil society groups criticised some provisions in the South Sudan Political Parties Bill, 2011 that empowers the President of the Republic to appoint the political parties council without consultation.
South Sudan Human Rights Society for Advocacy Executive Director, Biel Boutros Biel, told CRN that the language used in the bill was rather draconian and it compels political parties to accept unrealistic issues.He said the provision allowing the president of the republic to appoint the chairperson and members of the Political Parties Affairs Council and send it to parliament for approval without consultation was not ideal for the democratic process.
Mr Boutrus added that the president should suggest the names, discuss them with the political party leaders for approval before the list goes to the legislative assembly for approval.
Mr Boutrus explained that the law should only ban international financial support to political parties only when national security and interest are in danger.
United Democratic Party Acting Chairperson Manoah Aligo Donga said he had doubts about the provision that gives the president power to choose capable persons for the Political Parties Affairs Council and send them to the assembly.
He said the process excludes the participation of political parties adding that the President should at least consult the parties for the Council to be independent and objective.
Mr Aligo added that law said that parties get funds from the Government if they score at least five per cent of the vote during the elections.
He said the formula is not fair because political parties need money before and during elections and to prepare, organise and establish their offices.
Mr Aligo added that a new formula must be established that gives equal financial treatment to all the parties.
He said the SPLM is getting support from the government but the other parties are left out.