The leader of the minority in Upper Nile State Assembly claimed that the Malakal Mayor’s appointment was unconstitutional.
SPLM-DC MP Juliano Nyawello Dak said the state government appointed a mayor for Malakal quoting the wrong article in the Constitution, Voice of Love reported.He added that Malakal should not have a mayor because it is just a state capital.
Deputy speaker Chuol Diep Kiir replied that Mr Nyawello’s allegations were baseless without any legal support.
He added said SPLM-DC members were among the MPs who voted to summon the City Mayor to explain to the House a number of issues including the slaughterhouse, cattle auction and local alcoholic drinks.
MP Nyawello replied that any person or public official can be summoned by the assembly to explain any topic of concern.
He asked the ruling party to respect the rule of law and the Constitution.
MP Nyawello argued that the Mayor should have met the committee or represented his explanation from his seat but not on the podium.
He added that SPLM-DC MPs walked out from the House because the deputy speaker refused to correct the mistake.
The creation of Malakal City Council last year has brought collision of powers between the County Commissioner and the Mayor.