Transitional Legislative Assembly Stands Firmly Behind Speaker, Denounces False Allegations

The Transitional National Legislative Assembly issued a press release addressing the false and malicious allegations made against the Rt. Hon. Speaker, Jemma Nunu Kumba.

On September 14, 2023, Speaker Kumba received a document signed by Western Equatoria’s governor, Gen. Alfred Futuyo Karaba, which contained slanderous, baseless, and defamatory accusations.

In the document addressed to President Salva Kiir Mayardit and copied to various national and international figures, Gen. Futuyo alleged that Speaker Kumba was involved in crimes including murder, rebellions, destabilization of the state, fueling of wars, and undermining the president. The Office of the Speaker strongly refuted these allegations, deeming them unfounded and fabricated.

The press release emphasized that Speaker Kumba has dedicated herself to serving South Sudan with an unwavering commitment since the liberation struggle and subsequent independence.

With a commendable track record that includes a six-year tenure as the Acting Secretary General of the ruling party, SPLM, she has consistently demonstrated competence, honesty, loyalty, and a deep commitment to the nation and its President.

Furthermore, the press release highlighted the questionable credibility of Gen. Futuyo, pointing out that he is a sanctioned war criminal accused of serious crimes such as rape and sexual violence against South Sudanese citizens. Official records from the US Department of the Treasury, dated June 20, 2023, confirm these sanctions.

The Office of the Speaker called for the public and stakeholders to dismiss Gen. Futuyo’s false allegations, viewing them with the contempt they deserve.

It was stated that if Gen. Futuyo genuinely has concerns, there are legal and administrative avenues, outlined in the country’s statutes and constitution, for him to follow rather than resorting to baseless accusations.

The press release further stated that Speaker Kumba has instructed her national and international legal team to examine the defamatory statements made by Gen. Futuyo and recommend appropriate legal remedies.

This recent development has prompted speculation surrounding Gen. Futuyo’s true motives, and there are expectations that further investigations will shed light on his intentions and the sources of evidence supporting his claims.

As the Office of the Speaker vows to defend against these false allegations, the public eagerly awaits the outcome of the investigations and the legal recourse that will be pursued to address the defamation.

Through this press release, the Transitional National Legislative Assembly firmly stands behind Speaker Kumba, reaffirming their trust in her integrity and steadfast commitment to serving the nation.