Authorities and development partners in Yei River County of Central Equatoria State have launched a civic and voter education project to promote peaceful participation in democratic processes and prevent election-related violence ahead of the general elections slated for 22 December. The initiative, dubbed “Raising Civil Voices,” will be implemented in Yei Town Payam, Morobo and Kaya through civic and voter education, peacebuilding, conflict resolution and community engagement. This project aims to strengthen citizens’ understanding of democratic participation.
The project, implemented by Reconcile International, seeks to promote dialogue, mediation and community-based conflict prevention. Speaking during the launch on Monday, Reconcile International Programme Manager Geri Moses said the initiative aims to support peaceful, inclusive and violence-free electoral processes through community dialogue, mediation and early warning mechanisms. Moses emphasized the importance of creating awareness on issues related to elections, voter education, and awareness.
Geri Moses encouraged citizens to register and vote for people of their choice, saying this decision will make changes, either positive or negative, in their country. He also urged everybody to be peaceful, saying this is the only way that they can take their country from violence to peace and development. Reverend Peter Mawa Arona, the Anglican Bishop Commissary, welcomed the initiative, saying civic and voter education is essential in empowering citizens to make informed electoral choices.
Reverend Arona added that the country needs to vote to organize and stabilize the country and lead to development. Yei River County Caretaker Commissioner Emmanuel Taban Seme urged local leaders to report security threats and political intimidation in their communities to relevant authorities. He emphasized that no one should harass or intimidate anyone during the electoral process.
Commissioner Taban clarified that formal political campaigns have not yet started, pending an official announcement by the National Elections Commission. He noted that the ongoing political activities are party primaries and should not be mistaken for official election campaigns. When the time for campaigns starts, everyone will have the chance to campaign.
Commissioner Taban also urged community leaders to remain impartial during the electoral process, allowing campaign teams to do their job without interference. He emphasized the importance of peaceful and inclusive electoral processes. The “Raising Civil Voices” project is expected to promote peaceful participation in democratic processes and prevent election-related violence.
The project will be implemented in three areas, including Yei Town Payam, Morobo and Kaya. Key stakeholders, including local leaders and citizens, are expected to benefit from the project. The initiative aims to promote dialogue, mediation and community-based conflict prevention, ultimately contributing to peaceful and inclusive electoral processes.
Key points
- Authorities in Yei River County launch civic and voter education project to promote peaceful participation in democratic processes.
- The project aims to strengthen citizens’ understanding of democratic participation and promote dialogue, mediation and community-based conflict prevention.
- Commissioner Taban urges local leaders to report security threats and political intimidation in their communities to relevant authorities.
