CEPO Calls on Donors to Prioritize Media Support for Political Accountability in South Sudan
The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) has issued a compelling plea to the international donor community, urging them to prioritize media support as a critical tool for amplifying citizens’ voices in the demand for political accountability from South Sudan’s leaders. Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of CEPO, emphasized the pivotal role the media plays in pressuring political elites and highlighted its significant contributions to the recent political developments, particularly the signing of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
In a statement addressing donors, Yakani acknowledged that a well-supported and vibrant media environment is essential for fostering public discourse and demanding accountability from those in power. He stated, “Without a robust media presence, the political climate in South Sudan could have led to severe human rights violations. Adequate support for the media is imperative during this transitional period, which has been extended for two more years.”
CEPO warns that underfunded media in post-conflict contexts can enable political leaders to evade accountability, thus undermining the democratic aspirations of the citizenry. “The actor that can mobilize citizens to speak out freely and demand political accountability is a well-funded and vibrant media,” Yakani added.
The message comes as South Sudan approaches critical milestones in its transitional electoral process, with key deadlines looming for voter registration, elections, and constitutional processes. Significant dates include the dissolution of the government by September 22, 2026, and the casting of votes on December 22, 2026.
With the pressing deadlines, CEPO maintains that timely and sufficient funding for media initiatives is crucial to empowering citizens during this decisive period. Yakani urged the donor community to recognize that the success of the transitional process hinges on creating an environment where media can operate effectively, thus providing the necessary platform for civic engagement and accountability.
As South Sudan embarks on this transformative journey, the call for enhanced media support reflects a broader commitment to fostering a more democratic society where citizens can voice their concerns and demands for accountability from their leaders. for creating good enough conditions for holding democratic and peace elections in December 2026. Mr. Yakani stressed
Finally, CEPO is urging the donor community to really fund media for driving infleuntial role for citizens to demand political accountability from the political leaders and representatives in the next period of the transitional process. well-funded and vibrant media is the first cornerstone of any democratic transformation or transition foundation
