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Report by: Al-Naeim Mubarak Kuol
The Minister of Interior in South Sudan’s Transitional Government of National Unity, Angelina Teny, has emphasized the need to raise awareness and educate organized forces on democratic values during the country’s constitution-making process.
Speaking at the 8th Governors’ Forum, Minister Teny underscored the importance of such education since these forces directly interact with the public, who must be allowed to express their opinions and desires without fear or intimidation.
,“Raising awareness among the organized forces, who usually engage with the public, is critical because, in many cases, we are the reason people feel that political space is restricted.” She stated
Teny stressed that the legitimacy of the constitution relies on active civic participation, which can only flourish in a secure environment.
“This is vital for constitution-making because it is a people-driven process. Citizens will express their desires, what they want to see in their constitution, and the nature of the country they envision,” she added.
the need for the authorities to free citizens from fear by educating these forces and increasing their awareness, ensuring they do not intimidate the public. She emphasized that their primary role is to safeguard and maintain security among citizens. Angelina highlighted
She further stated that members of the government are responsible for protecting civic and political spaces, allowing people to freely express themselves.
The minister asserted that this approach is necessary to ensure the constitution-making process reflects the people’s will and fosters a democratic culture. She warned that unintended actions by these forces could instill fear in the public.
Diplomats, opposition politicians, and human rights activists have pointed out that the absence of civic and political space is primarily linked to the National Security Act, which grants the agency authority to arrest or detain individuals without a warrant from the public prosecutor.
Pagan Amum, leader of the original SPLM faction opposing the revitalized peace agreement, stated that the National Security Act must be repealed, warning that the country will never achieve peace without its removal, as it serves as a source of instability. Last week.
According to Eye Radio in Juba, the former SPLM Secretary-General strongly criticized the law, arguing that it has become a tool for oppression, fostering insecurity instead of providing protection for the people of South Sudan.
At the 8th Governors’ Forum, First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar revealed that the presidency had decided to reintroduce the law to the Council of Ministers and subsequently to parliament for amendments to its controversial provisions.
