South Sudan’s Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) has summoned the Minister of Defense and Veteran Affairs, Gen. Chol Thon Balok to appear before lawmakers and explain the government’s response to worsening conditions facing soldiers, war veterans, and victims of the liberation struggle.
According to an official communication seen by the media, the minister is expected to present a comprehensive report on Tuesday during Ordinary Sitting No.16/2025, detailing the state of welfare programs for both active members of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and those who served during the country’s decades-long struggle for independence.
Lawmakers say the decision follows growing concerns over the deteriorating living standards of veterans and liberation war victims, many of whom continue to face economic hardship, limited access to healthcare, and delayed benefits despite their service to the nation.
“The plight of our veterans and the poor welfare of our soldiers must be addressed as a matter of national urgency,” one legislator told reporters ahead of the session. “These are the men and women who sacrificed for South Sudan’s independence, and their dignity must be protected.”
Parliament is also seeking clarity on the government’s plans to improve conditions within the SSPDF, where soldiers have repeatedly raised grievances over low salaries, lack of proper housing, and insufficient medical support.
The minister’s appearance is expected to spark intense debate in the chamber as lawmakers push for concrete government action to improve the living standards of those who served — and continue to serve — in defense of the nation.
The minister’s response, or lack thereof, is likely to test once again the strained relationship between parliament and government officials, and could set the tone for how seriously oversight mechanisms are upheld in the months ahead.
