Activist condemns border clashes, urges presidential action

The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) has strongly condemned the escalating violence between border communities in Lakes and Unity states. CEPO’s Executive Director, Edmund Yakani, expressed deep concern over ongoing cattle raids and attacks involving youth from Rumbek North of Lakes State and Panyijiar County of Unity State. Yakani described the situation as deteriorating, […]
CEPO links alarming suicide rate to economic hardships

A recent wave of suicides in Juba has prompted Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) to urge the government to urgently address the country’s dire economic situation, which it says is a major contributing factor. The call from CEPO’s Executive Director, Edmund Yakani, comes in the wake of a police report revealing that nine suicide […]
Warrap attack proves need for comprehensive community disarmament- Yakani

The resurgence of deadly attacks in Warrap state is drawing widespread condemnation from civil society activist, who are now urging the national strategy to apply an all-out approach to the cycle of attacks. The attack, which occurred earlier this week, resulted in significant casualties and highlights the persistent challenge of armed violence despite ongoing disarmament […]
Activists demand gov’t commitment to end sexual violence

As South Sudan joins the world in observing the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, civil society organizations are urging the government to take solid steps to end both gender-based violence (GBV) and sexual violence. The day, marked each year on the 19th of June, aims to raise awareness about the […]
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 […]