Natioanl Legislative Assembly in Juba - June 2013. [Photo by Junior Ali/Eye Radio]

The National Legislative Assembly has approved the declaration of a state of emergency in Jonglei, Unity and Upper Nile states.

President Salva Kiir declared a state of emergency with effect from 1^st of January following the political crisis that broke out on the 15^th of December.

The parliament reconvened on yesterday to discuss the conflict in the country.

The Minister of Cabinet Affairs, Dr Elia Lomoro, told members of parliament that the ruling is to allow government to have full control over the affected states.

“Article 189 2 and 3 of the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan 2011, requires the declaration of state of emergency be submitted to the National Assembly within 15 days for approval,” said Dr Lomoro.

“We declare state of emergency in Upper Nile State for a good period of six months.”

The Speaker of the National Assembly, Honorable Magok Rundial, urged members of parliament to discuss the financial aspect of the state of emergency.