April 1, 2021(Nyamilepedia) — Following the release of the $174.2 million US dollar by the International Monetary Fund, the TROIKA, which comprises of the United States, United Kingdom and the Kingdoms of Norway, released a statement that calls for full transparency and accountability, auditing and full implementation of the Staff Monitored Programme(SMP), a South Sudan – IMF economic reforms agreement, and as well as full implementation of the Peace Agreement.
The TROIKA calls on the South Sudan government, which has been accused of rampant corruption, to demonstrate transparency to their citizens and hold corrupt officials accountable.
“Central to building credibility is the need for the Government to ensure greater transparency to its people over how their resources are used, and for those in power to be held accountable for misuse.” Reads part of the TROIKA statement.
“The Troika believes the Government needs to deliver on both transparency and accountability.” TROIKA continued.
As part of transparency and accountability, TROIKA calls for independent auditing, open and transparent budgeting practices and as well as public discussion through a Revitalized Transitional National Assembly.
“The role of independent auditing, open and transparent budgeting practices, and public discussion in the revitalized National Assembly is key, as is acting on identified weaknesses.” The TROIKA said.
Accordingly, TROIKA orders for the first auditing of the RCF loan to be done by the end of June and subsequent auditing of the RCF accounts to be done every three months.
“The Troika thus looks forward to seeing the audit of the first tranche of the RCF loan by the end of June and audits of the RCF account on a quarterly basis going forward.” TROIKA tells South Sudan.
In addition to auditing, TROIKA wants to see monthly publications of COVID-19 related spending and quarterly publications of all government spending and relevant oil spending reports.
“We also look forward to seeing monthly publication of pandemic-related spending and quarterly publication of all government spending and relevant oil data.” The TROIKA demands.
The world superpowers are ready to support South Sudan government; however, they warn that their support is not free – it comes with conditions that must be fulfilled.
“The Troika is ready to stay the course with Government, but this support is not unconditional. Government’s political will to reform, manifested in much greater transparency and accountability and implementation of R-ARCSS, is absolutely necessary for success.” TROIKA said in their statements.
