Call for Political Parties to Embrace Diverse Election Outcomes Rather Than Solely Pursue Victory

By Jackson Gaaniko

All political parties in Western Equatoria state have been urged to accept the results of the 2024 national elections instead of solely focusing on winning. 

This was revealed during a roundtable discussion organized by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Western Equatoria state, aimed at providing platforms for political parties to brainstorm on their roles in promoting democracy and good governance.

During the discussion, Mr. Samuel Lucky, the representative of the Community Initiative Development Association (CIDA), spoke to the political parties at the Women Empowerment Center on Wednesday evening. 

He emphasized that winning the numbers of voters is not the only issue, but accepting the results of the election is what truly matters. 

“Two presidents cannot win the election in the same position, nor can two governors or two MPs win the same position in an election,” Mr. Lucky stated

Samuel also commended the youth and political parties of Western Equatoria for demonstrating nationalism during the roundtable discussion. According to him, this shows a sign of accountable governance. 

Meanwhile, Mr. Wanga Emmanuel, the chairperson of CSOs in Western Equatoria state, appealed to the political parties to be flexible with the civil society whenever they want to visit their offices, leaving out their political protocols.

“In the morning, my heart was heavy, but now my heart is relieved, light, and very excited because all the political parties are here attending the roundtable discussion,” said Mr. Emmanuel.

In their closing remarks, the representatives of the political parties expressed their willingness to collaborate with civil society. 

“Our offices are open for you, and not all of us deny you whenever you come to us. The success of SSOA, SPLM I-O, OPP, and the SPLM I-G is our success. As other political parties, we have agreed upon here, and I will go by it as the chairperson of the Opposition party in the state.”

It is hoped that this roundtable discussion will foster a spirit of cooperation and acceptance of election results among political parties in Western Equatoria state, ultimately leading to a stronger and more democratic South Sudan.