Political leaders, government officials, civil society representatives, business leaders, women’s groups and youth activists have called for stronger democratic governance, economic empowerment and inclusive participation as essential pillars for South Sudan’s development.
The calls were made during a seminar organized by the United South Sudan Party (USSP) under the theme “Building a Modern State through the USSP Vision,” which brought together a broad range of stakeholders to discuss the country’s political future, economic transformation and national unity.
Speaking at the forum, USSP leader Paulino Lukudu Obede emphasized that South Sudan’s greatest challenge is no longer the struggle for liberation but the challenge of governance.
He said the country’s future depends on accountable leadership, effective management of public resources and the ability of citizens to choose their leaders through democratic processes.
“The problem of this country is governance. It is about how people and resources are managed,” Lukudu said, stressing that political competition should be conducted through dialogue and elections rather than violence.
He reiterated the party’s commitment to democratic principles, national unity, human rights and the rule of law, while rejecting the militarization of politics.
Lukudu also urged South Sudanese to move beyond ethnic divisions and focus on ideas, development and equal opportunities for all citizens.
The seminar coincided with International Refugee Day and was dedicated to South Sudanese refugees living in neighboring countries.
Participants highlighted the need for peace and stability to create conditions that would allow displaced citizens to return home and contribute to national development.
Chairperson of the Political Parties Council, Dr. James Akol Zakayo, welcomed the gathering as a positive sign of expanding political engagement and civic participation.
He encouraged other registered political parties to organize similar forums to strengthen democratic dialogue across the country.
Zakayo also reminded political organizations of their legal obligations, including maintaining national representation, promoting women’s participation, conducting internal democratic elections and ensuring financial accountability.
National Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairperson of the South Sudan Democratic Forum, Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro, challenged young people to view politics as a responsibility rather than a pathway to power.
He said leadership requires accountability and stewardship of public resources, adding that future elections should enable citizens to choose leaders based on competence, vision and service delivery.
“Politics is about managing public affairs and safeguarding national interests on behalf of the people,” Lomuro said.
A major focus of the forum was the role of young people in shaping South Sudan’s future. Acting USSP Secretary-General Patrick Baraka described youth empowerment as central to the party’s agenda, noting that young people constitute more than 70 percent of the population.
He said creating opportunities for youth participation in governance, entrepreneurship and community development would be critical to achieving lasting peace and prosperity.
The seminar also highlighted the importance of women’s leadership and social inclusion.
USSP Women Representative Suzan Ani Angelo called for greater investment in women’s education, entrepreneurship and political participation, arguing that empowering women strengthens families, communities and the national economy.
Representatives of persons with disabilities urged policymakers to ensure equal access to education, healthcare, employment and political representation. They emphasized that inclusion is a matter of rights and justice rather than charity.
Economic transformation featured prominently in the discussions, with business leaders calling for policies that support entrepreneurship, job creation and private sector growth.
Talib Juma Tombe of the Central Equatoria Business Union said South Sudan possesses enormous economic potential but continues to face challenges including unemployment, limited access to finance and inadequate support for young entrepreneurs.
He urged stronger partnerships between government and the private sector to unlock investment and create opportunities for the country’s growing youth population.
Throughout the forum, speakers stressed that democracy and economic opportunity are closely linked, arguing that accountable institutions, peaceful political participation and inclusive development are necessary to build a stable and prosperous South Sudan.
The event concluded with renewed calls for citizens, particularly young people, to actively engage in democratic processes, promote national unity and contribute to the country’s development through peaceful and constructive participation.
