JONGLEI - As South Sudan is gearing to conduct general elections soon, the United Nations (UN) is committed to supporting preparations for free, fair and credible processes.

Recently in Bor, the capital of Jonglei state, the UN facilitated a three-day training on electoral administration, to 27 participants drawn from civil society, the media, and people with disabilities.

“As South Sudan is faced with this historic moment, each and everyone has a role to play. I reiterate the UN’s commitment to building capacities of different stakeholders,” assured Geetha Pious, Head of the UNMISS Field Office in Jonglei. “The aim is to empower all of you in ensuring delivery of smooth and standard electoral processes,” she added.

The training is part of a series of workshops to enhance knowledge on electoral principles and techniques; promote networks of electoral communities of practice between organizations through experience sharing; and building confidence in discussing electoral topics through peer-to-peer engagement.

Participants were appreciative of the inclusive nature of the training as it brought vulnerable groups on board.  

“I was once a polling officer in 2010 when we received some trainings, but I can testify that this is one of its kind because it embraced women and people with disabilities. I appeal to all parties to be peaceful and respect the ongoing elections planning process,” said Andrew Bul Dau, from the Ministry of Local Government and Law Enforcement.

Women’s equal participation in electoral processes also dominated the discussions.

“It is my first time to attend such a training. It is foundational for me to encourage fellow women to exercise their civic and political rights, both as voters and aspiring candidates,” averred Kenya Mach from Jonglei State Women’s Association.

For their part, civil society representatives committed to scale up civic and voter education whilst underscoring the need for expanding civic space to enhance popular participation.

“Elections are the cornerstone of democratic governance where citizens decide their leaders. A conducive environment is equally important for citizens to exercise their right to vote without fear of intimidation and reprisals,” asserted Deng Manyuon.

Similar engagements are being undertaken with stakeholders in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area.

The training was facilitated by the UN’s Integrated Electoral Assistance Team (IEAT).