South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Simon Deng
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has promised to provide technical assistance to government institutions in a bid to realize the transition to democratic governance after years of conflict.
“We the United Nations stand ready to provide support and technical assistance to South Sudanese institutions as the country strives to complete its democratic transition with the full inclusion of women, youth, persons with disabilities and other marginalized groups,” said Guy Bennett, Chief of Political Affairs Division at UNMISS.
Bennett made these remarks during the opening of the three- day workshop on inclusive public participation in the constitution making process.
He said that the realization of meaningful and effective participation of women in decision making processes remains a challenge.
“We remain committed to assisting everyone especially women in ensuring the full equal, meaningful and safe participation of diverse stakeholders and groups in South Sudan in the peace process,” said Bennett.
Rukaya Mohamed, Country Representative for UN Women said that the National Constitution Review Commission (NCRC) with support from the transitional unity government and partners has made significant progress in executing its mandate.
She noted that a people-driven constitution depends on the level of public participation in the stages of the constitution making, adding that public participation at various stages of the process is vital in realizing popular ownership and national consensus.
Mohamed emphasized the need for NCRC to be transparent and impartial during the constitution making process.
Ayaa Benjamin Warrille, Minister of Gender, Child and Social Welfare highlighted the importance of the constitution in shaping the social, political, and economic landscape of the country.
She disclosed that the constitution provides a framework for accountable governance, adding that the drafting of the permanent constitution requires collective efforts of all members of the society.
“As we seek to build a more inclusive and equitable society, it is imperative that our constitution reflects the diversity and richness of our communities including the experiences and perspectives of women,” said Warille.
Warille revealed that South Sudan has already ratified International and regional instruments such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women Peace and Security, and the Maputo Protocol among others.
The three- day workshop organized by the National Constitution Review Commission with support from UN Women was attended by constitutional experts from Kenya and South Africa.
