Leadership must enable credible elections to end violence; activist urges authorities

As South Sudan moves toward its long-awaited elections, persistent delays have raised concerns about political stability and democratic progress. Analysts attribute these setbacks to the conflicting ambitions of individual leaders and the broader challenge of establishing a stable democratic system. The political and armed groups have often viewed elections and peace itself as threats to […]
CEPO pushes for inclusion of persons with disabilities in 2026 election process

As South Sudan inches towards its historic first national election in December 2026, Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) is urging political leaders and electoral bodies to prioritize the inclusion and representation of persons with disabilities in the democratic process. In a statement, Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of CEPO, stressed the importance of ensuring that […]
Worsening human rights crisis in South Sudan’s conflict – Yakani

The ongoing armed conflict in South Sudan has led to grave human rights violations, with civilians enduring widespread atrocities as warring factions continue to commit shocking acts, including the humiliation and burning of deceased opponents. Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of CEPO, has described the scene a “clear evidence of the erosion of human dignity,” […]
Judicial accountability in focus as Yakani appeals for change

Civil society activist Edmund Yakani has urged South Sudan’s judiciary to prioritize accountability and independence, calling on newly appointed Chief Justice Dr. Benjamin Baak Deng and his deputy to spearhead meaningful reforms. Yakani’s remarks come after President Salva Kiir emphasized the need for transparency and efficient justice delivery in a recent address during Dr. Baak’s […]
All eyes on 2025-26 Financial Bill as Fiscal Year Budget out for public review

For the first time, South Sudanese citizens will have the opportunity to participate in the national budget process as the parliamentary committee for finance engages with civil society ahead of a public hearing on the 2025-2026 Fiscal Year Budget. The preparation process has begun, with civil society organizations receiving a draft copy of the financial […]
NGO leader sounds alarm over double tax pressure in South Sudan

Conflicting personal income tax (PIT) demands from both the National Revenue Authority (NRA) and State Revenue Authorities are placing crippling pressure on national NGOs in South Sudan, threatening their ability to continue delivering essential services. The latest warning comes amid a broader and ongoing dispute between Central Equatoria State and the SSNRA over tax collection […]
Stop the violence: Activist urges immediate gov’t intervention in Tonj East

A civil society activist has condemned deadly inter-communal conflict in Tonj East County, Warrap State, where fierce fighting between the Jalwau and Luacjang communities has reportedly resulted in 26 fatalities. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progressive Organization (CEPO), urged the leadership in Juba to respond swiftly to de-escalate tensions in Tonj […]
Ex-Vice President Igga to receive peace award for honoring power shifts

James Wani Igga, former Vice President and First Deputy Chairman of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM), is set to receive the Ambassador of Peace Award from the Community Empowerment for Progressive Organization (CEPO) in recognition of his exemplary integrity and leadership in embracing a smooth transition of power. His acceptance of governmental changes as […]
CEPO urges urgent faith-based intervention into South Sudan’s deepened political crisis

The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) is calling for a third Kagiko Faith-Based Leaders Conference, as South Sudan’s prolonged political transition faces deepening trust deficits among its leaders. CEPO Executive Director Edmund Yakani, in a statement on Saturday, warned that South Sudan’s fragile peace risks collapse unless faith-based leaders urgently step in to mediate […]
China-Africa Cooperation: A blueprint for sustainable progress

The 14th meeting of the China-Africa Think Tank Forum has kicked off in Kunming City, China, drawing together scholars, policymakers, and development experts for crucial discussions on Africa’s modernization and the lessons to be learned from China’s success. Among the participants, Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), delivered insightful […]