Civil society, faith-based groups and parliamentarians push for expanded civic space

CENTRAL EQUATORIA –Over two days in Juba, more than five dozen representatives from civil society, faith-based organizations, Parliament, women's organizations, and youth groups came together to define a more structured role for civil society in South Sudan's peace process.

The forum was designed as a critical civic engagement initiative to rebuild trust between citizens and government while strengthening accountability and public participation.

Organized by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in collaboration with the Community Empowerment Programme Organization (CEPO), the event provided a platform for participants to exchange ideas, propose solutions, and develop recommendations to advance sustainable peace and security in Juba County and surrounding areas. The recommendations will be documented and shared with relevant government stakeholders.

"Just talking about peace and wishing it to happen is not enough. We need to move this conversation right to the heart of our communities, schools and homes. We need to get more women engaged in this process so that our voices are loud and we are heard," said Christina Ayei, Chairlady of the Juba Chamber of Commerce.

Ayei believes women have a vital role to play in shaping the country's future, describing herself as an ambassador for the women she represents.

Among the key concerns raised during the discussions was the erosion of national unity and the tribalization of politics, which participants said has increasingly fragmented South Sudanese society.

"During the war for independence, we were all nationalistic—we were one, and there was no talk of tribalism. But now, as we try to finalize the peace process, we are becoming increasingly divided along tribal lines, and this must stop," said Uria Guya Emmanuel, a parliamentarian representing Morobo county in the Central Equatoria Transitional Assembly.

He said political leaders bear a particular responsibility because their voices carry significant influence and can either inflame divisions or promote social cohesion. Citizens and policymakers alike, he added, have an important role to play in reducing tensions and advancing peace.

Betty Poni Christopher, a parliamentarian representing Kajo Keji in the Central Equatoria Transitional Assembly, said legislators have a responsibility to ensure communities remain engaged in the peace process.

"I am glad to see the participation of many parliamentarians at this forum because we are the ones who represent our constituencies and states. It is our responsibility and duty to take these messages back to the grassroots and ensure people feel included in the peace process," she said.

UNMISS's Civil Affairs Division has long supported civil society engagement as a means of fostering social cohesion and building bridges between communities. That work has taken on greater urgency following the government's announcement that South Sudan's first general elections will be held on 22 December 2026.

The discussions were facilitated by Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of CEPO. After two days of intensive dialogue, participants endorsed a set of recommendations calling for greater civic participation and stronger government accountability to support the country's transition from violence to lasting peace.

"The two biggest challenges for civil society in influencing political action are, first, the disconnect between politicians and the public because many political leaders tend to isolate themselves. Second, many civil society members lack the knowledge and skills to frame their arguments in a structured and coherent way," said Mr. Yakani.

He emphasized that commitment alone is not enough. To influence decision-makers effectively, civil society actors must also be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to advocate for meaningful change.

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By Robin Giri