By Yiep Joseph
South Sudan Civil Society Forum (SSCSF), in its statement has called out the South Sudan government to accelerate the repealing of the National Security Act 2014 as requested by the governor’s forum as well as stakeholders at Tumaini.
In July this year, South Sudan’s parliament approved an amended National Security Service Act retaining controversial articles that empower the NSS to detain suspects with or without warrants.
In addition to a series of objections from the public, the recent 8th governor’s forum recommended the need for the national parliament to repeal the Act. Also, the opposition group negotiating with the government in Nairobi called for the amendment of this act as well.
Meanwhile, the lawmakers went for recess without attending to the call of repealing the act and hope to resume their work in April 2025.
According to the statement extended to this outlet, the civic group issued a statement calling for the repealing of the National Security Act after serious engagement with the government and other stakeholders.
During a three-day strategic meeting in Nairobi, Kenya, the group came up with a call on the government to speed up the repealing of the National Security Act, as it has been a popular demand of the people.
“We call on you to expedite the repeal of the National Security Act 2014, particularly sections 13, 54, 55, and 57, in order to uphold the bill of rights articles 9 to 34 on the promotion of democratic principles, including freedom of expression, assembly, and association, as enshrined in the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan 2011 (as amended),” the statement partly read.
The South Sudan Civic Society Forum (SSCSF) is a coalition of over 200 independent civic groups, including civil society organizations, women and youth groups, academic institutions, community-based organizations, and faith-based entities from across South Sudan.
The activists argued that the repealing of the National Security Act would pave the way for civil and political space.
“This will guarantee the civic and political space needed to enable civil society and leaders to fulfill its mandate of leading efforts for social cohesion, civic empowerment, promoting healing and reconciliation, and addressing the deep-seated divisions and trauma caused by the protracted conflict,” the statement read.
The group also called on the government to double its commitment to ensure that inclusive peace is achieved through Tumaini.
The activists urged the government to implement the pending tasks of the peace agreement.
“We urge the government to develop a clear, actionable plan for the extended roadmap to expedite implementation of the remaining tasks”
The group expressed commitment to support in creating awareness and a spirit of dialogue.