18 November 2014 - Traditional leaders in Northern Bahr El-Ghazal State today called for the restoration of traditional laws in the courts during the opening of a five-day training workshop in the state capital Aweil.

“We want traditional laws to be implemented because they have (more) cultural benefits for our people than those brought from other countries,” said Dut Akerdit, a representative of the chiefs who are attending the workshop which is focused on principles of customary and statutory law.

According to Mr. Akerdit, cultures from East African countries, Sudan and western countries had contributed to the breakdown of traditional laws in South Sudan.

The training, organized with support from the UN Development Programme (UNDP), was intended to give the chiefs, women and youth leaders a better understanding of how to dispense justice using both systems.

Addressing participants on behalf of UN agencies in the state, UNDP Law Enforcement Advisor Aurelio Tecson said the training would strengthen the justice system and contribute to a better understanding of traditional dispute court system.

“More than 80 per cent of cases are being heard in customary courts,” he said. “Building the capacity of traditional leaders to administer justice in a fair manner and in accordance with international human rights standards is essential.”

Mr. Tecson added that the traditional leaders would learn the principles of customary and statutory laws in promoting gender and protection of vulnerable groups among others.

“An understanding and recognition of the rule of law, non-discrimination and gender equality are recognized as foundations for peace and stability,” he said.

Addressing participants, the state’s Caretaker Governor, Kuel Aguer Kuel commended UNDP for training the traditional leaders.

Mr. Kuel also urged organizers to translate training materials and laws into local languages so that people who don’t speak English would be able to understand them.

“They need to be translated into local languages so that they are properly understood and conceptualized to help in implementing the rule of law and justice system in the country,” he said. “Without justice, we will remain with problems (like) insecurity … because those who feel they are not given their rights will take the law into their own hands.”