OpEd

EDITORIAL: Citizens should embrace peace and unity ahead of December polls

As South Sudan approaches the December polls, citizens have an important responsibility to protect peace, unity, and social cohesion. Elections are an important part of political participation, but they should never become a source of violence, division, or hatred among communities. Political differences are normal in any society. Citizens may[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Newly appointed caretaker governors must prioritise protection of civilians

The appointment of caretaker governors across some states comes at a critical time for South Sudan. As the country prepares for the December 2026 general elections, the responsibility of state leadership goes beyond administration and political mobilisation. The protection of civilians must remain the priority. Caretaker governors are expected to[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Leaders should strengthen efforts to maintain peace and stability

South Sudan’s leaders have a responsibility to strengthen their efforts to preserve peace and stability in a country that has endured years of conflict, displacement, and economic hardship. The progress made toward peace must not be taken for granted. It requires continued political commitment, dialogue, and cooperation among leaders at[Read More…]

NATION TALK: The Inter-Party Dialogue must remain on track

South Sudan’s inter-party dialogue on election-related matters has an important responsibility: to help the country move peacefully and credibly towards the December 2026 general elections. The dialogue should therefore remain focused on its purpose and avoid becoming another source of political disagreement or delay. President Salva Kiir Mayardit made it[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: South Sudan leaders should put citizens first

South Sudan’s leaders carry a responsibility that goes beyond political office, personal interests, or party loyalty. Their primary duty should be to the citizens they represent. In a country facing economic hardship, insecurity, displacement, and limited access to basic services, leadership must be measured by how effectively it improves the[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Before the ballots, build the roads: South Sudan’s election connectivity test

As the country prepares for the December 2026 general elections, attention is increasingly turning to political campaigns, rallies, voter registration, and candidate selection. But beneath these political activities lies a basic issue that could determine how effectively candidates and communities connect. For many people in rural areas, reaching a county[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Peace parties should ensure inclusive dialogue

South Sudan needs renewed commitment to inclusive dialogue as political disagreements, economic difficulties, and public concerns continue to shape the country’s future. Dialogue should not be viewed simply as a political slogan but as an important avenue for addressing differences peacefully and finding common ground. An inclusive national conversation should[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Government must protect properties and lives of civilians

As South Sudan navigates the transition period of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), public anxiety regarding national security and political stability is reaching a critical point. Across towns and communities, citizens are voicing legitimate fears that the dissolution of the Revitalised Transitional[Read More…]

Op-Ed: How South Sudan is defined by its resilience, not problems

Writer: Catherine Lunkuse – lunkusecathy@gmail.com Before I came to South Sudan, I had heard many stories about the country. I heard about conflict. I heard about poverty, displacement, insecurity, political uncertainty, and economic hardship. I heard about a young nation struggling to find its footing after years of turmoil. From[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Government should strengthen police to reduce crime in towns

South Sudan continues to face serious security challenges that affect the lives, livelihoods, and future of its citizens. From violent crimes in urban areas to community conflicts in rural regions, insecurity remains one of the biggest obstacles to peace and development. To address this situation, the government must prioritise strengthening[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Let the prayer for peace guide South Sudan toward the ballot

Yesterday, South Sudan joined a national prayer for peace, bringing citizens and leaders together in a shared appeal for stability, unity, and a better future. As the country prepares for general elections scheduled for December 22, 2026, the message of such a prayer should extend beyond places of worship. It[Read More…]

NATION TALK: What comes to your mind when you steal from the church?

This question deserves serious reflection, especially amid growing concerns about theft in some churches. A church is not simply a building. For millions of believers, it is a place of worship, prayer, fellowship, and hope. People gather there to seek God, support one another, and give what they can to[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Strengthen humanitarian response as drought continues to threaten communities

South Sudan needs a stronger humanitarian response as drought continues to threaten communities already facing food insecurity and limited access to basic services. The government must therefore strengthen the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management to ensure it can respond quickly when emergencies occur. Drought should not be treated[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Inclusive dialogue remains crucial for South Sudan

South Sudan’s journey toward lasting peace and stability requires more than political agreements; it requires sustained and inclusive dialogue among the country’s diverse communities, political actors, civil society, women, youth, faith leaders, and other stakeholders. Dialogue provides an opportunity for differences to be addressed through discussion rather than confrontation. In[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Ensure security alongside election preparations

The commencement of voter education and registration is a significant milestone in South Sudan’s journey toward democratic governance. It offers citizens the opportunity to participate in shaping the country’s future through credible and peaceful elections. However, the success of this important process depends largely on one critical factor: security. The[Read More…]

Op-Ed: Empowering the black community: an African renaissance for global economic participation

The time has come for a new African Renaissance, one driven not only by political independence but also by economic empowerment, education, innovation, technology, ownership, and participation in the global marketplace. For generations, African societies have often remained consumers of products, technologies, and financial systems developed elsewhere. Today, our challenge[Read More…]

NATION TALK: We must take up agriculture with government support

Our nation has been blessed with fertile land, abundant water, and a favourable climate. These natural resources give us a great opportunity to feed ourselves and build a stronger economy. However, despite this potential, many families still struggle with food shortages and poverty. It is time for all South Sudanese[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Government should strengthen efforts to normalise fuel prices

Fuel is the lifeblood of any economy. It powers transportation, agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and nearly every aspect of daily life. In South Sudan, where businesses and households already face significant economic challenges, unstable and high fuel prices continue to increase the cost of living and slow economic growth. Strengthening efforts[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Skills training can give youth a future

The training of 83 young people in plumbing and tailoring by the DMI Sisters in collaboration with the Strome Foundation is an initiative that deserves attention and encouragement. The program has equipped 53 women and 30 men with practical skills that can help them pursue livelihoods, support their families, and[Read More…]