Bentiu Leaders Trained on Peaceful Resolution of Election Disputes

(BENTIU, UNITY STATE) – A three day civic education workshop on resolving electoral disputes peacefully concluded in Bentiu on 6 September 2026, bringing together local leaders and community representatives ahead of South Sudan’s planned general elections in December 2026.

The training was organised by the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) in partnership with Friedrich Ebert Stiftung and with support from the European Union. It forms part of a broader national initiative aimed at strengthening democratic values, reducing misinformation, and promoting civic participation across South Sudan.

More than 25 participants took part in the sessions, including youth representatives, women’s groups, traditional leaders, members of the Unity State Assembly and officials from local government. The facilitators emphasised the importance of equipping communities with the skills to prevent electoral disputes from escalating into violence.

Peter Par, a Director in the Ministry of Peacebuilding, said the workshop came at a critical time as Unity State and the wider country prepare for elections.

He highlighted that political competition often generates tensions and stressed that training in non violent dispute resolution will help communities and politicians address their differences peacefully.

Lead trainer Mogga Loyo told participants that voting is the foundation of democracy in South Sudan, noting that it is through elections that citizens delegate authority to their leaders and hold them accountable.

He explained that strong institutions such as the National Electoral Commission and the Supreme Court are vital to safeguard rights, resolve grievances, and build public confidence in the electoral process.

“Institutions like the Electoral Commission provide fair channels for resolving disputes and promote trust among citizens,” Mogga said, urging participants to make use of formal mechanisms when contesting election related issues.

He added that cases of women being denied their rights or candidates facing harassment should be reported through official channels, while civil society and other actors can document and escalate complaints to the relevant legal bodies.

Youth leader Nyadin Lual Ga, who chairs the Unity State Youth Union, said the training had broadened the understanding of participants. She noted that it offered practical approaches to advocacy and opened discussions on how young people and women can secure their rights during the election period.

“As civil society in Unity State, we are committed to working on a clear plan for peaceful elections where women can move freely and youth can speak without fear.”

She called for more awareness activities across Unity State’s payams and bomas, adding that this would help ensure rural communities are informed and included in the democratic process.

Bentiu Workshop on Peaceful Resolution of Electoral Disputes