The Director General of the Directorate of Civil Registry, Immigration, Nationality and Passports announces the arrival of 20,000 passport booklets and 50,000 nationality cards.

Speaking to Eye Radio, General Elia Costa said the issuance of the documents will begin on Monday, a move expected to reduce the backlog in processing essential identification documents across the country.

He said previous delays in delivery were caused by international flight disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East.

“The delay was not from us or the company. Many flights were cancelled because of the war between Iran and the United States. That affected the shipment of the booklets,” Costa said.

The Director General said priority will be given to students traveling abroad and patients seeking medical treatment outside the country.

“We are going to give priority first to students who are going and then also to sick people,” he added.

Costa also asked members of the public who are not in urgent need to allow those with pressing travel requirements to be served first. “If you are not in a hurry, please give chance to those who need to travel abroad for their situation,” he said.

He further revealed that additional batches of passport booklets and nationality cards are expected later this month, and that monthly deliveries will be maintained to prevent future shortages.

Costa said services will eventually extend to South Sudanese living abroad, especially in countries such as Egypt, Uganda, Kenya, and Ethiopia.

“The booklet will continue to arrive from time to time. This ensures there won’t be gaps like before,” he said.

Former Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, Jemma Nunu Kumba, has expressed gratitude to President Salva Kiir Mayardit for the trust placed in her during her time in office.

In an appreciation letter dated April 8, 2026, Kumba said she was thankful for the opportunity to serve as the first female Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly from August 2021 to April 2026.

“I write to convey my deepest gratitude and sincere appreciation for the trust and confidence you placed in me to serve as the first female Speaker,” she said.

Kumba said it was an honour to lead Parliament during a period she described as critical in the country’s journey toward peace and stability. She said the role gave her the opportunity to contribute to strengthening the legislature and supporting the broader goals of the peace process.

“It has been my profound honour to be entrusted with such responsibility at a time when our nation continues to navigate the path towards lasting peace, stability, and nation building,” she said.

She added that during her tenure, efforts were made to improve the functioning of Parliament, including aligning its processes and standards with those of regional legislatures.

“We have worked to improve not only the physical appearance of the institution but, more importantly, its functionality,” Kumba said.

The former Speaker also thanked Members of Parliament and staff for their cooperation and support, saying progress had been made in strengthening parliamentary practice and accountability.

Kumba said she remains committed to serving the country as a Member of Parliament and called for collective responsibility among leaders to advance peace, reconciliation, and development.

“As I continue to serve as a Member of Parliament, I am reminded that the responsibility to build our nation does not rest on any one office or individual,” she said.

She also pledged loyalty to her party and support for the government, saying unity and commitment to national interest are key to moving the country forward.

“Through unity of purpose and dedication to the national interest, I am certain that we can continue to move our country forward,” she said.

Background
Kumba’s remarks come days after changes in the leadership of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, which saw her replaced as Speaker.

Eye Radio earlier reported that the leadership transition followed a decision by the ruling party to recall her from the position and nominate a new Speaker as part of ongoing political adjustments within the parliament. Continue reading “Jemma Nunu Kumba breaks silence after removal as Speaker”