Juba Forum Calls for End to Tribal Politics Ahead of 2026 Polls

(JUBA) – Civil society groups, faith based leaders and members of parliament have agreed on a set of recommendations to expand public participation in South Sudan’s peace process ahead of general elections set for December 2026.

More than 60 representatives from civil society, faith organisations, women’s groups, youth bodies and Parliament gathered in Juba for a two day forum aimed at rebuilding trust between citizens and the government.

The event was organised by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), together with the Community Empowerment Programme Organization, or CEPO.

Participants said the conversation about peace must move beyond meeting halls and into communities, schools and homes.

Christina Ayei, Chairlady of the Juba Chamber of Commerce, said women in particular must be brought into the process so their voices are heard. She described herself as an ambassador for the women she represents.

A central concern raised at the forum was the weakening of national unity and the rise of tribal politics.

Uria Guya Emmanuel, a parliamentarian representing Morobo County in the Central Equatoria Transitional Assembly, said that during the war for independence South Sudanese were united and nationalism was strong. He said that now, as the peace process moves forward, society is increasingly divided along tribal lines and this must stop.

He added that political leaders carry a special responsibility because their words can either inflame divisions or promote social harmony. Citizens and policymakers alike, he said, must work to reduce tensions.

Betty Poni Christopher, a parliamentarian representing Kajo Keji County in the same assembly, said legislators have a duty to keep communities engaged in the peace process. She welcomed the presence of many parliamentarians at the forum and said it is their responsibility to take the messages back to the grassroots so that people feel included.

UNMISS has long supported civil society engagement as a way to build social cohesion and bridge gaps between communities. That work has become more urgent following the government’s announcement that South Sudan’s first general elections will take place on 22 December 2026.

The discussions were facilitated by Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of CEPO.

After two days of dialogue, participants endorsed recommendations calling for greater civic participation and stronger government accountability to support the country’s shift from violence to lasting peace.

Mr Yakani said the two biggest challenges facing civil society are the disconnect between politicians and the public, because many political leaders isolate themselves, and the lack of knowledge and skills among civil society members to present their arguments in a clear and structured way.

He said commitment alone is not enough and that civil society actors must be equipped with the tools to advocate for real change. The recommendations from the forum will be documented and shared with relevant government bodies, according to a press release following the two day forum.