Across South Sudan, communities are suffering extreme hardship fueled by persistent conflict, a deteriorating economic situation, lack of infrastructure and development, as well as climate shocks, such as catastrophic flooding.

These challenges were among a long list of concerns debated by 80 participants at an in-person engagement with residents of Gudele, a suburb of the capital Juba, organized by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, to promote community participation in political and democratic processes, including constitution-making.

Under the banner “Peace Begins with Me”, the participants highlighted the many obstacles to peace, recovery and development, including rampant insecurity, high unemployment, poverty, inadequate access to healthcare and education, limited opportunities for economic advancement and a general sense of deprivation and hopelessness.

“I am a widow with limited education and scarce employment opportunities,” said Mama Flora Rizik. “I cannot send my kids to university and our future is not clear. I am frustrated and have no hope that anyone will come to my aid.”  

Youth leader, Sarah Foni, said youth are seeking answers and solutions to the country’s economic woes, so that their dream of a better future can be realized. The current perception, she said, is one of distrust of those in authority for putting their own interests ahead of those of their people.”

“We feel we are being censored by the government because the more we report about hardships and abuses or ask for interventions, the more trouble we encounter,” she said. “We no longer have the right to freedom of expression and are not allowed to say what we must. This must change, and I call on the Government and peace partners to hold those involved in this repression to account.”

UNMISS Political Affairs Officer, Advocate Emmanuel Chol, emphasized the importance of enhancing the civic and political space so that citizens can participate in decision-making and the peace process, particularly the development of a new permanent constitution.

He recommended community members be delegated to participate in the National Constitutional Conference so that the full range of views are represented.  

“This is the first time you have been able to participate in constitution-making, which is the roadmap to deciding what type of elections will be held. You should be proactive during the consultation process when the constitution is still being drafted, to advocate for inclusivity,” he said.

“It is through your representative at the National Constitution Conference that your voices can be heard. Although there are many challenges, there is still hope for a positive outcome.”

Area Chief, Sultan Reuben Abbas Musa, urged his community to strengthen their understanding of, and engagement in, constitution-making as well as to advocate for their inclusion in preparations for the country’s first democratic elections, scheduled for December 2026.

“It is a relief for us to be able to express our feelings openly today,” he said. “We are ready to go for elections, if the necessary arrangements are put in place in a timely manner. We believe that, with elections, change will come and people will be free to practice their constitutional rights, including freedom of expression without restrictions.”