South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Benjamin Takpiny
The opposition United South Sudan Party (USSP) in Central Equatorial State has expressed deep concern regarding the ongoing relocation of street vendors at Custom Market in Juba.
Nyarsuk Patrick James, the Spokesperson of USSP in Central Equatoria State said in a statement issued on Monday, that the state government’s plan to allocate a two-by-two-meter portion to vendors at a cost of 104,000 SSP is deemed exorbitant and unaffordable for the majority of vendors.
“Regrettably, the Central Equatoria State government until now failed to materialize their relocation plan. After our thorough investigations, we are reliably informed that, the proposed allocation of a two-by-two-meter portion at a cost of 104,000 SSP is deemed exorbitant and unaffordable for the majority of vendors. These individuals, primarily young entrepreneurs, vulnerable, and widows, are already struggling to meet their basic needs from daily marketing due to the culture of salary delays which may delay to many months for government employees,” James said.
James said that the plan if implemented will hurt deeply South Sudanese entrepreneurs who are deprived of alternative sources of income and employment opportunities amid the ongoing economic hardship in the country.
He questioned the commitment of the state government in fostering an environment conducive to the growth of local businesses, especially when they encounter burden in paying heavy taxes and the arbitrary closure of indigenous businesses.
“We the USSP in Central Equatoria State strongly condemn the action and lack of commitment demonstrated by the Director of Munuki Block Council and the Juba City Council Authority and the whole State Government in resolving the issue of relocating the Custom Market vendors. We call upon the government of Central Equatorial to initiate a thorough investigation into the delay in the relocation process. Opening the roads for smooth business operations is not merely a demand; it is an urgent necessity for the economic well-being of the affected entrepreneurs,” James said.
He urged the immediate employment of young entrepreneurs and the swift implementation of the Youth Enterprise Development Fund as outlined in the revitalized peace agreement.
James added that such proactive measures are essential for boosting economic growth and reducing reliance on oil revenue, emphasizing the need to create sustainable income sources for the government.
“In the spirit of fostering economic growth and peace, the USSP underscores the paramount importance of supporting initiatives that contribute to the welfare and development of South Sudanese citizens. It is high time for the government to prioritize the interests of its people and create an environment where local businesses can thrive,” he said.
