South Sudan has experienced significant turmoil since 2013, with conflict and displacement affecting countless lives. Regina Adyeng Amaylek Amuch, a resident of Malakal, is one such individual who has faced hardship firsthand. She lost her home in 2013 and again in the recent Sudan conflict, only to rebuild her life and business. Her story echoes the sentiments of many who yearn for lasting peace and stability in the country.
The root of South Sudan's recurring peace issues lies in the lack of agreed-upon rules for power sharing and governance. Since 2005, the country has witnessed multiple agreements dividing power among armed groups, but the fundamental question of what type of country and citizenship its people desire remains unanswered. This omission has led to a situation where every contest for power becomes a fight for survival, rather than a democratic process.
The country's constitutions, including the 2011 Transitional Constitution, have not adequately addressed these concerns. The review process for the constitution was marred by controversy, with opposition parties walking out due to broken promises of equal representation. The 2017-2020 National Dialogue, convened during wartime, also faced limitations and boycotts, rendering it ineffective in settling the terms of a common life for South Sudanese citizens.
The current plan to hold elections under the transitional constitution has raised concerns. The 2018 peace agreement stipulated that elections should take place under a people-led and people-owned Permanent Constitution. However, amendments have reversed this order, allowing the vote to proceed without a clear framework for governance. This has led to concerns that the election may not be a democratic choice, but rather a contest for survival.
To achieve lasting peace, the order of events must be reversed. First, the people of South Sudan must agree on the norms of coexistence and the structures that make it possible. This includes determining how power is shared, how land is protected, and what public duties citizens can expect. Second, these agreements must be enshrined in a constitution shaped and approved by the people. Only then can elections be held to choose managers to run these rules and referees to enforce them.
The experience of other countries, such as Angola and Kenya, offers valuable lessons. In Angola, holding an election before demobilization and merger of armies led to renewed conflict, while in Kenya, a new constitution was approved before the next election, leading to a more peaceful process. These examples demonstrate the importance of establishing a solid foundation for governance before holding elections.
While there are concerns about extending the transition period, it is crucial to ensure that any further delays do not perpetuate indefinite rule. A people-led process with clear deadlines and tasks can help build trust and ensure that the voices of all citizens, including those in refugee settlements, are heard. By prioritizing the establishment of rules and a constitution, South Sudan can pave the way for a more peaceful and democratic future.
Key points
- The order of events in South Sudan's peace process must be reversed, with a focus on establishing agreed-upon rules and a constitution before holding elections.
- The lack of a permanent constitution and unclear rules for power sharing have contributed to the country's recurring peace issues.
- The experience of other countries, such as Angola and Kenya, offers valuable lessons for South Sudan's path to lasting peace.
