South Sudan President Salva Kiir has banned singing of national anthem in his absence, a move that could spark an uproar, it has emerged.
Kiir is struggling to stamp his authority in Africa's youngest nation, with frequent clashes with rebels allied to former Vice President Riak Machar making it technically impossible.
Information Minister Michael Makuei told AFP that different leaders and institutions were playing the anthem at whim, which was an abuse of the national tune, written shortly before independence in 2011.
"For the information of everybody the national anthem is only meant for the president, in a function only attended by the president, not for everybody," Makuei said.
"We are seeing now even a minister, undersecretary, even governor or state minister, whenever there is a function the national anthem is sung."
Also affected in the new orders are members of SPLM army. According to Kiir, they will not be allowed to address civilians while in official military attire.
Early this month, Kiir visited Nairobi where he held bilateral talks with President Uhuru Kenyatta. Kenya donated a piece of land for South Sudan in Naivasha for construction of an Inland Depot.
Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka is Kenya's special envoy to South Sudan peace process. Kiir hailed Kenya for continued support in peace processes.
“We are delighted that you have assured us that Kenya will exert more pressure for the implementation of the peace accord,” said President Kiir, who was in the country for a two-day state visit.