By Teddy Chenya
JUBA, 23 October 2012 [Gurtong] - The release signed by Majok says that there has been rampant misuse of state symbols by citizens and business community at large as logos, billboards, advertisements and as business cards.
The rules and guidelines of the usage of national symbols have to be strictly and immediately observed by all citizens of South Sudan.
The Seal of the Republic shall be used only by the President of the Republic of South Sudan as provided for under section (8) of the Seal of the Republic of South Sudan Act, 2012.
The only exception where the Seal of the Republic may be used is by classified Ministries, Institutions and National Bodies as a stamp.
The National Coat of Arms may be depicted, engraved or otherwise displayed only by the following Ministries, Institutions and National bodies according to section (7) of the National Coat of Arms Act, 2012:
• South Sudan Television
• The National Flag
• Distinguished badges, signifying rank and specific head gear of the Organized Forces of South Sudan.
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation (as a Headed Paper)
• Government of South Sudan Publications
• Secretary General of Council of Ministers
• Ministry of Interior (Passports, Nationality, ID, Driving Licenses and Birth Certificate)
The National Coat of Arms shall not be permitted or allowed for use, except as provided for in section (7) above. A Coat of Arms shall not be part of any National Ministries, Institutions or National bodies Logo or trademark of any business company.
The Coat of Arms shall not be used in Non-Official functions and occasions, drawing or advertisement of any institutions or printed matters for commercial use.
The Presidential Flag shall only be used on the means of transportation of the President of the Republic and Vice President in certain occasions.
It shall be raised and hoisted in State Houses as well as in other offices of the President of the Republic and shall not be used by any Ministry, Institutions or on occasions of National Celebrations, National Events and by any individual citizens.
The National Flag except as otherwise provided for under the provision of the National Flag Act, 2011 or any orders issued by the President of the Republic shall not be flown, displayed or used as part of the Logo of any public institution or Ministry, National Bodies, Political Parties or any other body corporate.
The national flag cannot be used as a drawing in non-official functions and occasions or as a drawing on private vehicles or a cover for any vessel or boat.
It cannot be used as a cover for coffin unless approved by the President of the Republic or Head of South Sudan Diplomatic Missions Abroad as the case may be.