South Sudan Begins Constitutional Making Process with Induction Workshop

South Sudan has taken a significant step towards its political transition as the reconstituted National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) launched its constitutional making process. The induction workshop, held from January 22 to 26, 2024, under the theme “R-NCRC for a people-driven constitution,” aimed to lay the foundation for a successful political transition in the country.

Hon Tiang Yer Zuor, the chairperson of the reconstituted NCRC, highlighted the critical importance of the constitutional making process. He urged citizens to actively engage and prepare themselves for effective participation in shaping the future of South Sudan.

“This is a historic moment for South Sudan. We have the opportunity to craft a constitution that truly represents the will of the people and ensures a peaceful and prosperous future for our nation,” Hon Zuor stated.

The success of the induction workshop was made possible through the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). 

Dr. Riang, a representative of the NCRC, expressed appreciation for their assistance in making the workshop a success. 

“We are grateful for the support of UNDP and UNMISS in organizing this workshop. Their expertise and resources have been invaluable in laying the groundwork for our constitutional making process,” Dr. Riang said.

Maj. Gen. Charles Tai Gituai, Interim Chairperson of the Revitalized Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission, stressed the need for an inclusive and democratic constitutional making process. He emphasized that citizens are eagerly awaiting the action plan of the NCRC, which will outline the steps and budget for the constitutional making process, including the commission structures. 

“It is crucial that all voices are heard and represented in the constitutional making process. We must ensure that the resulting constitution reflects the aspirations and values of the South Sudanese people,”Maj. Gen. Gituai stated.

Professor Jerome Biswaro, Special Representative of the African Union and Head of the AU office in South Sudan, called on the government to timely and adequately finance the constitutional making process. He emphasized that this step is crucial in creating a conducive environment for the upcoming elections. 

“A well-funded constitutional making process is essential for a successful political transition. It will provide the necessary framework for free and fair elections and the establishment of a stable and democratic government,” Prof. Biswaro stated.

Mr. Gay Benerd, representing the Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the UN and Head of UNMISS, expressed the readiness of UNMISS to support the constitutional making process as peace partners. He called for effective political commitment from all stakeholders involved. 

Mr. Benerd said, “UNMISS is committed to supporting South Sudan in its journey towards peace and stability. We stand ready to provide technical assistance and logistical support to ensure a transparent and inclusive constitutional making process.”

Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), expressed satisfaction that the constitutional making process has finally commenced after years of advocacy and lobbying. 

CEPO urged citizens to actively engage in the process and ensure that the resulting constitution truly represents the will of the people. 

“This is a historic moment for South Sudan. We must seize this opportunity to shape our future and build a nation that upholds the rights and aspirations of all its citizens,” Mr. Yakani stated.

In line with this, CEPO has launched the “Citizens Constitutional Making” initiative, which aims to provide a platform for citizens to freely engage in discussions without any restrictions on civic and political space. 

The organization believes that a people-driven constitution is crucial in creating a conducive environment for the upcoming elections scheduled for December 2024. 

The initiative will empower citizens to actively participate in shaping South Sudan’s future and ensure a fair and democratic electoral process.