South Sudan Women’s Push for Equal Representation in Constitution Making Process
The women of South Sudan are demanding a significant role in the permanent constitution making process with a call for 50 percent representation, as announced during the launch of the Dissemination of the South Sudan Women’s Charter.
Under the theme “Promoting an Inclusive and Gender Responsive Permanent Constitution Making Process in South Sudan,” Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Hon. Mary Nawai, emphasized the need for unity among women regardless of political affiliations to achieve equal representation in the country’s decision-making processes.
Minister Nawai highlighted that many African nations, such as Uganda, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Somalia, Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa, have successfully implemented equal gender representation in government structures, setting a precedent for South Sudan to follow.
The Minister of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, Hon. Ayaan Benjamine Warrille, emphasized the importance of empowering women at the grassroots level to understand and assert their rights. The launch of the charter aims to provide a platform for women to advocate for their rights and contribute to peacebuilding efforts in South Sudan.
Undersecretary in the Ministry of Peace Building, Pia Phillip Micheal, acknowledged the pivotal role women play in society and asserted their right to demand 50 percent affirmative action in the constitution-making process. He encouraged UN partners to support the implementation of the women’s charter and promote awareness at all levels of the state administration to ensure women’s voices are heard.
The collective efforts of South Sudanese women are driving towards a more inclusive and representative constitution-making process, bringing hope for greater gender equality and empowerment in the nation’s governance.
