Climate Justice: Pakistani Farmers Target Corporations in Lawsuit

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Inayatullah Laghari, in black, with another farmer in Baid Sharif village, Dadu district, Sindh, Pakistan [Al Jazeera]

By Pernia Mubashir

ISLAMABAD/BERLIN — In a groundbreaking legal maneuver, a coalition of Pakistani farmers aims to reshape global climate accountability. They have formally launched a lawsuit against two major German corporate entities. Their historical greenhouse gas emissions, allegedly, directly contributed to the catastrophic climate-induced floods that devastated Pakistan in 2022.

The lawsuit was filed in the German legal system. It marks a significant escalation in the global “climate justice” movement. The battle for “loss and damage” compensation is moving out of international diplomatic summits. It is now directly entering European courtrooms.

The Legal Argument: Corporate Climate Liability

The plaintiffs, representing agricultural communities whose livelihoods were destroyed, are utilizing advanced “climate attribution science” to build their case.

  • The Core Claim: The legal team argues that these specific German multinational corporations are historically among Europe’s highest industrial emitters. They bear a quantifiable, proportional responsibility for the extreme weather patterns. These patterns triggered the 2022 monsoon disaster.
  • Seeking Restitution: The farmers are not just seeking symbolic victories. They are demanding direct financial compensation for the loss of their lands, livestock, and homes. They argue that the Global North’s industrial wealth was built at the direct environmental expense of the Global South.
  • The 2022 Context: The floods in question submerged an estimated one-third of Pakistan. They displaced tens of millions of people and decimated the agricultural sector. The damages were estimated to exceed $30 billion.

A Precedent-Setting Global Test Case

Legal and environmental analysts are watching this case closely. Until recently, climate litigation primarily focused on forcing governments to lower future emissions. This lawsuit represents the “second wave” of climate litigation: forcing private corporations to pay for historical damage.

If the German courts rule in favor of the Pakistani farmers—or even allow the case to proceed to discovery—it would establish a massive legal precedent. It could open the floodgates for vulnerable communities across Africa, Asia, and South America. These communities might sue specific Western corporations for damages related to droughts. They could also address rising sea levels and extreme flooding.

South Sudan Aims for 160 Billion SSP in Monthly Revenue

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NRA Official logo

JUBA — The South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA) has drastically escalated its non-oil revenue collection mandates. The Commissioner General has set a target of 160 billion South Sudanese Pounds (SSP) per month. This target is for the final four months of the 2025–2026 fiscal year.

The ambitious fiscal directive, announced this week, signals a highly aggressive push by the national government. It aims to offset continuing shortfalls in oil exports. This will be achieved by maximizing domestic taxation and customs duties before the current fiscal year closes.

The Math and the Mandate

If the SSRA successfully meets this newly established monthly benchmark, the Authority will extract an additional 640 billion SSP from the domestic economy. This extraction will occur between March and June 2026.

  • Intensified Compliance: Achieving a monthly baseline of 160 billion SSP will require the SSRA to strictly enforce compliance across all non-oil sectors. This demands utmost efficiency in corporate taxes, personal income taxes, and border customs.
  • Institutional Pressure: The directive places immediate, heavy pressure on state-level revenue branches. It stresses major border posts, like Nimule, to close financial leakages. They must guarantee all collected funds are remitted directly to the national single treasury account without delay.

Friction with the Private Sector

This revenue announcement arrives at a highly volatile moment for the South Sudanese commercial sector. The ambitious target directly intersects with the ongoing institutional friction about exactly how these taxes are being collected.

The Ministry of Trade and Industry clashed with the executive Economic Cluster just last week. They had disagreements over the operational failures of the Crawford Capital digital payment system. This system is a digitized gateway explicitly designed to boost the SSRA’s revenue streams.

Extracting 160 billion SSP monthly from a private sector already battered by hyperinflation. Currency depreciation and fragile digital infrastructure will raise concerns among local traders. The Chamber of Commerce has long complained about multiple and overlapping taxation.

Tribute to Nicholas Haysom: An Impactful Peace Advocate

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JUBA — The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has officially announced the passing of its highly respected Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) and Head of Mission, Nicholas Haysom. UNMISS also mourned his loss. In a solemn statement released to the public, the UN peacekeeping mission paid tribute to the veteran South African diplomat. His tenure in Juba was defined by his efforts to navigate the world’s youngest nation. He guided it through its complex and often volatile transitional peace process.

“A Beacon of Hope “The official UNMISS communication highlighted Haysom’s profound impact on both the mission and the host country.

The Tribute: The mission praised his “principled leadership.” They also recognized his wisdom, diplomatic skills, and unwavering commitment to peace in South Sudan and across the globe.

Enduring Legacy: The statement emphasized Haysom’s deep respect across political divides. It noted that he “inspired all those whose lives he touched.” His legacy will continue to serve as a “beacon of hope” for the nation’s ongoing pursuit of stability.

A Critical Loss at a Critical Juncture. Haysom’s passing arrives at a highly sensitive moment for South Sudan.

As the Head of UNMISS, he was a central international figure in urging the transitional government to meet the benchmarks of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. He consistently advocated for the protection of civilians. He promoted the opening of political and civic space. He also facilitated the necessary logistical preparations for the country’s first democratic elections.

His death has resonated deeply not only within the United Nations but also at the highest levels of regional leadership. Just days prior, President Salva Kiir Mayardit, during his official state visit to Pretoria, formally extended his condolences to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, explicitly recognizing Haysom’s instrumental service to South

Kiir and Ramaphosa Strengthen Ties Ahead of 2026 Elections

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PRETORIA/JUBA — President Salva Kiir Mayardit and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa concluded high-level bilateral talks. They met in Pretoria on Thursday, March 19, 2026. The talks resulted in concrete pledges of electoral support. They also spurred renewed economic cooperation between the two nations.
The summit marks a critical diplomatic milestone. Juba attempts to solidify regional backing for its transitional roadmap. This comes ahead of the highly anticipated general elections.
Securing the 2026 Electoral Mandate
The presidential dialogue primarily focused on whether South Sudan’s upcoming democratic transition is logistically viable.

Firm Timeline: President Kiir used the platform to unequivocally reaffirm his government’s commitment. He promises to hold the country’s first general elections in December 2026. He explicitly stated that the Revitalized Peace Agreement remains the guiding framework for the transition.

Logistical Pledges: Acknowledging the severe technical deficits facing South Sudan’s electoral institutions, Kiir formally requested South African assistance. President Ramaphosa responded positively to specific requests. He pledged South Africa’s readiness to assist with the printing of ballot papers. The provision of voter registration materials was also included.

Regional Endorsement: Ramaphosa emphasized the necessity of “inclusive and credible” elections. He noted that Pretoria’s support aligns with broader African Union positions. This helps stabilize the world’s youngest nation.
Economic Invitations and Foreign Investment
Beyond the political transition, the summit served as a strategic pitch for foreign direct investment.

“Open for Business”: President Kiir formally invited South African corporate entities to expand their footprint in South Sudan. He is attempting to pivot the bilateral narrative from peace brokering to mutual economic benefit.

Target Sectors: The South Sudanese delegation specifically highlighted untapped opportunities within the mining, tourism, air transport, and oil sectors. They aim to leverage South Africa’s advanced industrial capabilities. This is intended to stimulate Juba’s struggling macro-economy.
Mourning a Diplomatic Veteran
The talks also carried a solemn diplomatic note. President Kiir expressed his formal condolences to the government of South Africa. He mourned the passing of Nicholas Haysom. Haysom was a veteran South African diplomat and former Special Representative of the Secretary-General. He was also Head of UNMISS. Kiir officially recognized Haysom’s instrumental role in navigating South Sudan’s complex peace process over the years.

Salva Kiir’s State Visit to South Africa: Key Diplomatic Goals

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H.E. Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit, the President of the Republic of South Sudan

JOHANNESBURG/JUBA — President Salva Kiir Mayardit arrived at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Saturday, March 14, 2026, commencing an official state visit to South Africa. The diplomatic mission aims to deepen historical ties. It also seeks to secure expanded economic cooperation with the administration of President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Senior South African state officials officially received the president upon arrival. Simon Deng Akook, the chargé d’affaires of the South Sudanese Embassy in Pretoria, joined them.

The Diplomatic Agenda

Speaking to the press at Juba International Airport prior to the president’s departure, Press Secretary Hon. Arek Aldo Ajou outlined the strategic objectives of the trip. He framed it as a crucial step in South Sudan’s current foreign policy. It is also important for institutional development.

  • Addis Ababa Follow-Up: The Johannesburg talks continue the high-level bilateral discussions. These discussions were initiated between Kiir and Ramaphosa last month. They began on the sidelines of the African Union Heads of State and Government Summit in Addis Ababa.
  • Economic & Capacity Building: The official agenda focuses heavily on expanding cooperation in the economy. It also emphasizes institutional building and capacity development. This signals Juba’s intent to leverage South African expertise in statecraft and infrastructure.
  • The “Special Program” Groundwork: Notably, Hon. Arek confirmed that the foundation for this presidential visit was recently laid. This happened during a preliminary diplomatic mission. The mission was conducted by the senior presidential envoy on special programs, Hon. Adut Salva Kiir.

“The talks between the two sides are expected to focus on strengthening the historical ties binding the peoples of both nations… a visit that will contribute to deepened bonds of relationship between the two countries to serve their mutual interests.” — Hon. Arek Aldo Ajou, Press Secretary

The Juba-Pretoria Axis

The relationship between South Sudan’s ruling SPLM and South Africa’s ANC is deeply rooted in historical liberation-era solidarity. South Sudan is navigating the complexities of its extended transitional period. The country also faces severe domestic economic pressures. Securing concrete developmental partnerships with regional economic powerhouses like South Africa is a critical priority for the Kiir administration.

Western Equatoria State Government Restructuring Explained

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H.E. Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan

JUBA/YAMBIO — President Salva Kiir Mayardit has issued a sweeping series of presidential decrees. These decrees overhaul the Western Equatoria State (WES) government. They systematically relieve and replace over a dozen officials affiliated with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement–In Opposition (SPLM-IO).

The decrees were disseminated late Friday, March 13, 2026, via official state communication channels. They represent a major reconfiguration of the state’s executive cabinet, independent commissions, and local county leadership.

The Cabinet and Executive Shakeup

The most significant alterations occurred within the state ministries. Changes also took place in the governor’s advisory team. These changes targeted portfolios critical to state economics. They also targeted public messaging.

  • Finance & Planning: Hon. Morris Bazia was relieved as Minister of Finance, Planning and Investment, replaced by newly appointed Hon. Bakiki Simple John Francis.
  • Information & Communication: Hon. Elia Usini Dominic was dismissed from his role as Minister of Information, with Hon. Mohamed Juma Bistin appointed to take over the portfolio.
  • Legal Affairs: Hon. Azera Mina was removed as State Legal Advisor, succeeded by Hon. Costa F. Akile Fulanguru.
  • Labour & Public Service: Hon. Isaac Mursal was also relieved of his ministerial duties, though a direct replacement was not immediately named in the initial decree broadcast.

Commissions and Local Government Reconfiguration

The overhaul extended deeply into the state’s independent commissions. It also reached local government structures. These areas have recently been flashpoints for political friction in Western Equatoria.

  • Anti-Corruption & Human Rights: Hon. Abuida Samuel (Chairperson, Anti-Corruption) and Hon. Charles Alley (Deputy Chairperson, Human Rights) were dismissed. They have been replaced by Hon. Bazia Tito Morris and Hon. Hipai Regina Romano, respectively.
  • County Commissioners: The political leadership of three critical counties has been entirely replaced.
    • Nagero County: Hon. Henry Bangagada was replaced by Hon. Nicola Vero Usini.
    • Mvolo County: Hon. Ruben Amai was replaced by Hon. Isaac Sebit Brown.
    • Nzara County: In a notable internal reassignment, Hon. Isaac Atoroba Moses was moved from his position on the Conflict Resolution Committee to take over as the new Commissioner of Nzara County, replacing Hon. Lino Futaki Kuago.

The Political Context

Under the framework of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement (R-ARCSS), specific parties like the SPLM-IO must fill allocated positions. The party’s leadership must hand in nominees. A mass reshuffle of this scale typically indicates a coordinated internal reorganization initiated by the interim Chairperson of the SPLM-IO Hon. Stephen Phar Kuol. He aims to strengthen party discipline at the state level. However, this move places immediate operational pressure on the WES government under Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa 

JEDCO Partners with Ecobank to Digitize Electricity Token Purchases

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JEDCO Logo

JUBA — The Juba Electricity Distribution Company (JEDCO) and Ecobank South Sudan have announced a joint partnership. They aim to digitize the buying of electricity tokens across the capital.

The new initiative was announced via a joint press release. It integrates utility payments directly into the Ecobank mobile application. This signifies a significant private-sector push toward digital financial services in South Sudan.

Bypassing the Physical Queues

Historically, Juba residents have faced long queues when purchasing prepaid electricity. They have also encountered logistical hurdles. Residents often rely on physical visits to JEDCO offices or authorized street vendors.

  • 24/7 Accessibility: The new digital service allows Ecobank customers to buy tokens at any time. This eliminates the dependency on physical vendor operating hours.
  • Service Efficiency: The partnership is explicitly designed to reduce physical queues and improve immediate access to essential utility services.
  • Financial Tracking: Customers will now be able to securely track their electricity expenditure directly through their mobile banking interface.

The Digital Integration Process

The process utilizes existing mobile banking architecture to streamline the exchange. Users navigate through the Ecobank mobile app. They select the “Pay Bill” and “Utility” options. Next, they choose “JEDCO Electricity” and enter their specific meter number and the desired cash amount.

Both JEDCO and Ecobank expressed that this partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing digital payments. They also aim to play a key role in the “economic transformation of South Sudan.”

Daniel Akot Appointed Speaker of South Sudan’s Council of States

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Rt. Hon. Daniel Akot Akot, the newly appointed speaker of the Council of States-RSS

JUBA — President Salva Kiir Mayardit has officially appointed Hon. Daniel Akot Akot as the new Speaker of the Council of States. This appointment ends a months-long leadership vacuum in the upper house of South Sudan’s national legislature.

The appointment was announced via a presidential decree. It reshapes the legislative hierarchy. The country navigates complex political and economic hurdles during the extended transitional period.

Filling the Legislative Vacuum

The elevation of Hon. Daniel Akot Akot, a veteran political and military figure within the ruling SPLM party, restores formal leadership to the Council of States.

  • The Predecessor: The position has been vacant for several months following the sudden dismissal of the former Speaker, Hon. Deng Deng Akoon.
  • Institutional Stability: The Council of States plays a critical role in overseeing state-level governance. It ensures decentralized resource allocation. The Council also resolves jurisdictional disputes between the national government in Juba and the 10 States and 3 Administrative Areas. A prolonged vacancy at its helm had severely limited the chamber’s legislative capacity.
  • Strategic Timing: This appointment arrives during a period of intense institutional friction. There have been recent clashes between the executive Economic Cluster and the Ministry of Trade. These clashes are over digital revenue collection. A fully constituted parliament is essential for passing the sweeping economic and security reforms mandated by the revitalized peace agreement.

The Political Landscape

The removal of Deng Deng Akoon months prior was part of a broader series of administrative reshuffles by the presidency. The installation of Daniel Akot Akot is significant. He is known for his historical weight within the liberation struggle and the SPLM. This move signals an effort to consolidate experienced, loyalist leadership within the legislative branch. This comes ahead of the highly anticipated general elections.

Atong Kuol Manyang Rescinds Crawford Capital Suspension

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Hon. Atong Kuol Manyang, the National Minister of Trade and Industry

JUBA — South Sudan’s Minister of Trade and Industry, Hon. Atong Kuol Manyang Juuk, has officially rescinded her controversial 90-day suspension of the Crawford Capital digital payment system.

The reversal, outlined in Memorandum No. 2/2026 dated March 13, 2026, brings a formal end to the institutional standoff, confirming that the minister yielded to direct instructions from Vice President H.E. Dr. James Wani Igga, chair of the economic cluster.

A Constitutional Defense

While complying with the vice president’s March 6 letter to pause her directives, Minister Atong utilized the new memo to mount a robust legal defense of her initial actions.

  • “Good Faith” Intent: She stated that the original March 5 suspension was issued “in good faith” to save both the Ministry and the wider economy from collapsing under operational failures.
  • Constitutional Mandate: The minister cited Article 114 (1) of the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan, 2011 (as amended). She argued this article legally establishes that a minister is the head of their ministry and their decisions “shall prevail,” unless explicitly reviewed by the National Council of Ministers or suspended by the president.
  • Respecting the Council: She formally clarified that her previous memo was not an attempt to “dissolve, omit, or reverse” the collective Council of Ministers’ Resolution No. 34/2024, but rather an administrative attempt to review system challenges and serve the public interest.

Reluctant Compliance and a Demand for the SSRA

The suspension was canceled immediately. However, the language on the second page of the memo reveals that institutional friction remains high.

  • Standing Firm on Principle: Minister Atong bluntly noted that her personal decision to review the Crawford Capital system “remains unchanged.” She is “obliged to respect the advice” of the vice president and chair of the economic cluster.
  • Support for Digitization: She reaffirmed the Ministry’s broad support for e-services, automation, and integration into the East African Community system. This support is granted, provided it is executed systematically to avoid trade disruption.
  • An Ultimatum for Transparency: In a final directive (NB), the minister gave an ultimatum to the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA). She demanded they provide a transparent account with “clear details.” She stated this accounting is necessary. It will enable the Ministry to issue a public circular disseminating the proper use of the e-service system.

Opinion: Open letter to the Ministry of Wildlife Conservation and Tourism

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By Garang Atem Awuol


To: Dear Honorable Minister, Hon. Denay Jock Chagor.
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the state of wildlife conservation in South Sudan, particularly in Jonglei State. On 8th February 2026, during my visit to Twic East County, I witnessed thousands of wild animals crossing near the Jonglei Canal towards Toch.

Disturbingly, I also observed numerous poachers traveling on motorcycles, each carrying up to six animals. Most of the animals being killed were males, which poses a serious threat to the reproductive balance of these species. If this continues unchecked, the productivity of female animals will be severely affected, leading to long-term ecological decline.
Wildlife is one of our nation’s greatest assets. Unfortunately, local citizens continue to hunt animals in areas such as Bidingilo and Boma Park. This undermines the enormous potential of wildlife as a source of income through tourism. Properly managed, our parks could attract thousands of tourists, generating millions of dollars annually.

Such revenue could be used to pay civil servant salaries, support organized forces and the army, and fund critical infrastructure development.
Recommendations: To safeguard our wildlife and unlock its economic potential, I respectfully propose the following measures:

  1. Establish a joint wildlife security force across Jonglei State, Central Equatoria State, and the Pibor Administrative Area.
  2. Deploy drones to monitor animal movements and track poachers within the parks.
  3. Provide water points for wild animals to reduce their movement into residential areas.
  4. Construct tourist accommodations within the parks to encourage sustainable tourism.
  5. Build a road to help in the accessibility of wildlife personnel vehicles and tourists’ movement.

With these measures, South Sudan can protect its wildlife, strengthen its economy, and preserve its natural heritage for future generations. I appeal to your Ministry to take urgent and appropriate action to address this crisis.I remain available for further discussion and can be reached at garangatem.scymi@gmail.com

By Garang Atem Awuol, Concerned Citizen, South Sudan