By Jacob Onuha Nelson
An Activist is urging South Sudan government of National Unity to respect freedom of expression as in the transitional constitution and relevant laws of the country.
Ter Manyang Gatwech, executive director for centre for Peace and Advocacy, highlights the importance for the government to uphold and protect the fundamental rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association as essential pillars of democracy.
“Freedom of expression, assembly, and association are not privileges; they are rights guaranteed under both national and international law, “Manyang said.
Mayang emphasized that Freedom of expression is protected under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
This means that nearly every State in the world is obliged to protect the right to freedom of expression.
The civil society activist emphasized that these laws guarantee every citizen the right to the freedom of expression, reception and dissemination of information, publication, and access to the press without prejudice to public order, safety or morals as prescribed by law.
“A truly democratic future depends on the ability of all people to speak out, mobilize, and participate in shaping the society they live in,” Manyang stated.
There have been growing dissatisfaction from the public over the shrinking civic space.
CPA emphasizes that democratic progress is only possible when citizens are free to voice their opinions, gather peacefully and organize around shared values and causes without fear of repression or intimidation.
The Centre for Peace and Advocacy (CPA) urges all state institutions to respect and protect these rights and to foster an environment where democratic values can flourish through inclusive dialogue, transparency and accountability.