The interim mayor of Juba is under increasing pressure to quit after it was allegedly discovered that he had slapped a female street vendor.
Africa Today News, New York reports that the latest criticism is coming from the Chamber of Commerce in Central Equatoria State, who say Emmanuel Khamis Richard acted in an ‘uncivilized way’.
Their letter also says vendors deserve respect as “people who are hustling in order to make ends meet” and “put foot on the table”.
In footage posted on social media, it appears Mr Khamis slapped the female vendor with his right hand while holding a pistol in his left hand at one of the capital city’s roundabouts.
The video went viral earlier this week. The mayor has not commented since, and remains in post despite public condemnation and a letter from MPs unanimously calling for his removal.
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The MPs’ letter has not been acted upon by Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony of Central Equatoria State.
Africa Today News, New York reports that Mr Khamis is not new to controversy. Weeks after he took office in June, he issued a decree almost doubling the price of water drums in Juba. After a public outcry the government ordered him to drop the policy.
The National Legislative Assembly issued a statement calling for the removal of the acting mayor immediately.
During the ordinary sitting chaired by Speaker Jemma Nunu Kumba on Wednesday in Juba, Reath Tang, a member of Parliament representing Upper Nile State Nasir County spoke, called for action against Khamis saying his behaviour was contrary to the expectation bestowed on the office he holds.
Tang said that if an individual is seen to have committed an offence, they should be taken through the formal prosecution process.