Revise Registration Fees: Supporting Democracy Shouldn’t Cost a Fortune
The Executive Director of INTREPID South Sudan, Mr. Bol Deng Bol
By Bol Deng Bol
In South Sudan where democracy is still taking its baby steps, the exorbitant registration fee for political parties set by the Political Parties’ Council (PPC) is not just impractical but also counterintuitive. As the Executive Director of INTREPID South Sudan, I firmly believe that it is time for a change.
The 50,000 United States Dollars demanded by the PPC may seem insignificant in some circles, but in reality, it translates to over 80,000,000 South Sudanese Pounds. This staggering amount is beyond the reach of many aspiring political parties, stifling diversity and hindering the growth of a vibrant democratic landscape.
As a nation grappling with a consistently weakening economy and navigating through the complexities of elections, it is imperative that we create a level playing field for all participants. The current registration fee is a significant barrier to entry, favoring only those with deep pockets and shutting out voices that truly represent the diverse fabric of our society.
It is my earnest plea to the PPC to reconsider their financial requirements and align them with the economic realities of our country. A more reasonable approach would be setting the registration fee at 2 to 3 million South Sudanese Pounds, a figure that is both feasible and fair for all aspiring political parties.
In the spirit of inclusivity and diversity, I propose that political parties unable to meet even this revised fee be allowed to form coalitions with like-minded groups. This would not only foster collaboration among various stakeholders but also ensure that every voice has a chance to be heard in our democratic process.
In the words of Nelson Mandela, “Democracy is not just about periodic elections, but about ensuring that everyone has a voice.” Let us not allow financial barriers to silence the voices of our people. It is time for the PPC to listen to the concerns of the people and make democracy truly accessible to all.
