By Kei Emmanuel Duku
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has urged the Minister of Justice, Constitutional Affairs, and Development, to prioritize establishing a strong and comprehensive legal framework for the country.
The president made this call in a meeting with Dr. Wek Mamer Kuol at the state house in Juba, on Thursday afternoon. He emphasized the crucial role of the legal system in ensuring stability, justice, and development.
“Strong legal frameworks are a necessity for effective and maintaining institutional effectiveness, as well as providing justice across the country,” according to a statement from Presidential Press Unit.
The Minister of Justice, Constitutional Affairs and Development, Dr. Wek Mamer Kuol, held a meeting with the president on the ministry’s current programs and priorities.
Minister Wek pledged to work closely with stakeholders to implement the ministry’s mandate and called for unity and dedication to the welfare of the South Sudanese people.
He welcomed the President’s strong desire to see human rights effectively championed and protected throughout the nation.
“The meeting was a reflection of the government’s renewed interest in legal reforms as part of its overall efforts to consolidate democratic institutions and build public confidence,” said Wek.
Recent policy legislation considered key by many actors toward achieving lasting peace in South Sudan includes the enactment of the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) Act and the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA) Act.
Established in 2024, these laws established the CTRH and CRA to address human rights violations, war crimes, and abuses, and to recommend remedies for victims. The CTRH, mandated to investigate, report, and facilitate reconciliation, is planned to be led by seven commissioners.
The call for a strengthened legal framework comes as South Sudan strives to consolidate peace and stability following a prolonged period of conflict. Observers believe that a credible and effective legal system is vital for building trust, resolving disputes peacefully, and fostering a culture of respect for the rule of law.
The government’s recent efforts in reforming legal systems by enacting the CTRH Act has been welcomed by the international community and civil society organizations, who have long advocated for improvements in South Sudan’s justice sector. Many believe that a robust legal framework is a key ingredient for the country’s long-term success.