By Emmanuel Malual Makuach, Juba, South Sudan
Monday, August 7, 2023 (PW) — As the young nation of South Sudan sets its sights on organising pivotal elections in 2024, the road ahead appears bumpy, filled with numerous challenges that demand immediate attention. Under President Salva Kiir Mayardit, the government must address these hurdles to ensure a prosperous and democratic election process.
Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has struggled to establish stable governance and democratic institutions. The upcoming elections in 2024 hold the potential to solidify the nation’s democratic foundations. However, multiple challenges loom large in achieving a free and fair electoral exercise.
Peacebuilding and Security: One of South Sudan’s foremost challenges is restoring lasting peace and security within its borders. For a successful election, citizens must feel safe enough to cast their votes without fear of oppression or violence. The government must prioritize initiatives that disarm and reintegrate armed groups, promote community dialogue, and rebuild trust among communities affected by years of conflict.
Constitutional Reforms: South Sudan requires extensive constitutional reforms to ensure a transparent and inclusive electoral process. These reforms should address critical concerns such as power-sharing arrangements, decentralization, equality, and protecting fundamental rights. Critical engagement with opposition parties, civil society organizations, and citizens is essential to developing a comprehensive constitutional framework that guarantees fair representation for all.
Voter Registration and Education: A well-functioning democracy hinges upon an informed and engaged electorate. However, South Sudan faces challenges in conducting a comprehensive voter registration campaign due to logistical constraints and citizens’ remote access to registration centres. Additionally, a lack of awareness and education regarding the importance of voting poses an obstacle. As a matter of urgency, the government must prioritize voter registration and education initiatives to ensure all eligible citizens can exercise their right to vote.
Independent Electoral Commission: Establishing an independent and impartial electoral commission is crucial to conducting free and fair elections. South Sudan needs to enhance the credibility and integrity of its electoral processes by appointing competent, non-partisan individuals that inspire public trust. Nonetheless, challenges related to resource allocation, technical capacity, and overcoming political interference must be tackled promptly for the electoral commission to function effectively.
Freedom of Press and Access to Information: A vibrant and free press is fundamental to a healthy democracy. South Sudan has made significant strides in recent years to protect journalists’ rights, but more needs to be done to foster an environment conducive to objective reporting and investigative journalism. Enhancing media freedom, ensuring access to information, and protecting journalists from intimidation or persecution are essential pillars of building trust between citizens and the political process.
President Salva Kiir Mayardit, aware of these numerous challenges, has vowed to prioritize these issues while steering the country towards its long-awaited democratic elections in 2024. The international community, too, should extend its support and provide necessary assistance to ensure South Sudan’s election process is inclusive, transparent, and equitable.
As South Sudan embarks on this crucial journey, it is imperative that all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and citizens, join hands to overcome these challenges and work towards a future in which every member of society can actively participate in shaping their nation’s destiny. The successful organization of elections in 2024 will mark a significant milestone for South Sudan, heralding the beginning of a new era of democracy and progress for its citizens.
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