ARUSHA, EAC HQ. February 9th, 2024 – The Committee on Legal, Rules and Privileges of The East African Legislative Assembly led by the Chair Hon. Mashaka Ngole wraps up an on-spot assessment of the Republic of South Sudan's implementation of the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community (EAC), as well as the protocols and laws of the Community. The activity took place in Juba from 4th to 9th February 2024. Hon. Deng Alor Kuol, The Minister of East African Affairs in the Republic of South Sudan and who is also the current Chair Council of Ministers of EAC opened the meeting in Juba.
Under Article 49 (2) (d) of the EAC Treaty, EALA has the power to discuss all matters pertaining to the Community and make recommendations to the Council for the implementation of the Treaty. As it has been eight years since South Sudan joined the EAC, it is essential for the Committee on Legal, Rules, and Privileges to undertake this oversight activity.
The objectives of the assessment were to evaluate how South Sudan is implementing the EAC Treaty, examine the implementation of EAC protocols by South Sudan, and assess the implementation of EAC laws in the country. The Committee engaged the key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors, including government officials, representatives of the private sector, and non-state actors within South Sudan. The Committee also visited relevant institutions and locations within Juba, as proposed and organized by the government of South Sudan.
During the assessment, the Committee gathered information on the actions taken by South Sudan in the implementation of the Treaty, including the domestication of the Treaty and the establishment of relevant institutions. They also examine the implementation of the Protocol on the Establishment of the EAC Customs Union, the Protocol on the Establishment of the EAC Common Market, and other EAC protocols in South Sudan. The enforcement of EAC laws and the harmonization of national laws related to the Community were also assessed.
The Committee aimed to determine the benefits accrued from the implementation of the Treaty, protocols, and laws of the EAC in South Sudan, as well as the challenges faced by the country in their implementation since they joined the East Africa Community.
The findings and recommendations of the assessment by the Legal, Rules and Privileges Committee will be presented to the EALA and the Council of Ministers for further action.
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About East African Legislative Assembly (EALA):
The East African Legislative Assembly is one of the organs of the East African Community (EAC) responsible for legislation, representation, and oversight of the Community. Comprising elected representatives from the Partner States of the EAC, EALA plays a crucial role in promoting regional integration and cooperation among East African countries.
