The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) has launched a three-day civic education and elections workshop in Rumbek, Lakes State, South Sudan. The workshop, which started on Thursday, brings together over 30 participants from various groups, including political parties, the State High Electoral Commission, youth and women's groups, persons with special needs, and media representatives. The aim is to raise awareness about civil rights and strengthen participants' ability to advocate for those rights.
According to CEPO Project Officer, Khamis Cosmas, the workshop focuses on equipping participants with information on citizens' rights, electoral participation, voting procedures, and election protocols. He emphasized that particular attention is being given to women and young people, who need to have a better understanding of their rights and how they can participate in civic and electoral processes. This initiative aims to enable communities to understand their responsibilities and engage more meaningfully in democratic processes.
The Deputy Chairperson of the State High Electoral Commission, Ezekiel Thiang Mangar, highlighted the importance of citizens understanding their rights to make informed decisions and participate meaningfully in elections. He urged political parties to mobilize citizens to participate responsibly and constructively in the electoral process. Mangar also stressed the role of the media in providing accurate, balanced, and responsible reporting on electoral issues, saying reliable information is crucial in helping citizens understand the electoral process.
The workshop provides a platform for discussions on civil rights, electoral participation, and the responsibilities of citizens and institutions. It is expected to enhance participants' understanding of electoral procedures and encourage greater participation in the electoral process. For women and youth, the workshop offers an opportunity to strengthen their knowledge of civic rights and their role in public affairs. Political parties are also expected to benefit from the training by gaining a clearer understanding of their responsibilities in mobilizing citizens and participating in the electoral process.
James Marirer Gong, the RRC Director for Administration and Finance, urged participants to pay close attention during the training and make effective use of the knowledge and skills they gain. He emphasized that understanding citizens' rights is essential for enabling people to make informed choices when elections are held. Marirer encouraged participants to take the lessons from the workshop back to their respective communities and use the knowledge to contribute to greater public awareness.
The training is a significant step towards promoting civic education and enhancing public participation in the electoral process in Lakes State. By engaging key stakeholders, CEPO aims to create a more informed and active citizenry, capable of exercising their rights and responsibilities in the upcoming elections. The workshop is expected to have a positive impact on the electoral process, fostering a culture of civic engagement and responsible participation.
The initiative by CEPO is a commendable effort to strengthen democratic processes in South Sudan. By focusing on civic education and electoral participation, the organization is contributing to the development of a more informed and engaged citizenry. The workshop in Rumbek is a crucial step towards promoting democratic values and ensuring that citizens are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to participate meaningfully in the electoral process.
Key points
- The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) has launched a three-day civic education and elections workshop in Rumbek, Lakes State, South Sudan.
- The workshop aims to raise awareness about civil rights and strengthen participants' ability to advocate for those rights, with a focus on women and young people.
- The initiative is expected to enhance participants' understanding of electoral procedures and encourage greater participation in the electoral process.
