Newly appointed Speaker of the National Legislative Assembly, Joseph Ngere Paciko, addresses the House during his maiden speech on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 - Credit: Madrama James/Eye Radio

The newly appointed Speaker of the National Legislative Assembly, Joseph Ngere Paciko, has pledged to accelerate the implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, describing it as the essential roadmap for South Sudan’s unity and development.

In his maiden address to Parliament on Tuesday, April 7, Speaker Ngere outlined a vision centered on legislative accountability, constitutional adherence, and a call for lawmakers to prioritize national interests over political divisions.

He characterized his leadership as a “duty rather than a privilege,” promising a tenure defined by fairness, justice, and transparency.

Speaker Ngere emphasized that the Executive must move swiftly to fully realize the provisions of the peace deal. He urged Members of Parliament (MPs) to move past partisan friction to focus on the transition.

“In my leadership, I will be committed to the full provisions of the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan as amended, and the Rules of the National Assembly Conduct of Business,” Speaker Ngere stated.

“I encourage the Members of Parliament to bury their hatchets and focus on unity, regardless of political affiliation, region, or gender. Our unity is Parliament, and it is this unity that will enable us to better manage complex legislative processes.”

He added that a unified legislature is the only way to effectively manage resources and turn the commitments of the peace agreement into practical benefits for the citizens of South Sudan.

A major pillar of the new Speaker’s agenda is reinforcing the Assembly’s role in holding the government accountable. Ngere promised to streamline the legislative process, ensuring that bills move quickly and that MPs have a robust platform to scrutinize executive actions.

The Speaker also took a firm stance on governance, calling for decisive action against corruption and economic crimes.

“Honourable Members of the House, my Administration shall endeavour to provide MPs with a fair platform to question and vet the Executive and to ensure that both staff and MPs act without fear or favour,” he said.

“This approach is necessary to promote more inclusive and structured parliamentary engagement and to instil a strong sense of accountability.”

Beyond policy and oversight, Speaker Ngere highlighted the need to improve the welfare of parliamentary staff and MPs to ensure the institution functions effectively.

As South Sudan approaches national elections and continues to navigate developmental challenges, the Speaker noted that a disciplined and transparent Parliament is key to supporting democracy and delivering real solutions to the people.

For Ngere, the 2018 agreement remains more than just a document—it is the framework intended to deliver justice, liberty, and prosperity across the country.