The speaker of the Reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly has called on Members of Parliament (MPs) to uphold the dignity and integrity of the House by exercising restraint and responsibility in their use of social media platforms.
At the opening of parliament’s first session, Speaker Rt. Hon. Jemma Nunu Kumba emphasized the vital need for responsible public discourse as South Sudan navigates a fragile political transition.
“At this moment in our nation's history, we need to acknowledge that our words carry weight. As Honorable Members of Parliament, we must always strive to uplift rather than divide, to clarify rather than confuse, and to guide rather than inflame,” said Nunu on Wednesday in Juba.
Nunu expressed deep concern over the increasing misuse of social media by some MPs, warning that such behavior risks eroding public trust and social harmony.
“Across the country, we have witnessed a rise in divisive and provocative narratives circulating online, narratives that threaten to undermine social cohesion and fuel tensions at a time when unity is demanded more than ever before,” Nunu stated.
While commending most MPs for maintaining discipline, the Speaker warned against a growing trend among a minority of parliamentarians using social media for personal grievances and political attacks.
“These actions not only undermine the dignity of this House but also risk inciting division and mistrust among the very people we are entrusted to serve,” she cautioned.
She urged MPs to follow constitutional and procedural channels when raising concerns or criticisms, and to refrain from using online platforms as a battleground for political feuds.
“Let us be clear: resorting to social media to settle political scores or discredit fellow leaders serves no constructive purpose. In a context as sensitive as ours, such conduct can have dangerous consequences; particularly by misleading the youth and other community members and dragging them into harmful or irresponsible behaviors,” she warned.
The Speaker urged public servants to uphold maturity, integrity, and unity during this crucial phase of the country’s democratic journey.