[OPINION] – Kakuwa Elections Offer Blueprint for National Elections

The Inspiration Shaping a Destiny in Kakuwa History

Nothing comes without reason. There is always a need that drives human action. When a person feels thirsty, they require water. When one is hungry, they need food. Each desire can only be satisfied by its rightful solution, hunger by food, thirst by water.

This same principle applies to the recent Kakuwa elections. From this electoral process, four key realities emerged that define what these elections mean for the Kakuwa people:

+ Restoring the true name: For years, history books recorded the name as “Kakwa,” a spelling that the Kakuwa never consented to and were unaware of. This election reaffirmed the rightful name as “Kakuwa.”

+ Revealing identity: The process displayed the true behaviour of the Kakuwa people, showing how they are organised and how they respond to confusion and challenges.

+ Demonstrating influence: The elections revealed the silent but significant influence the Kakuwa hold in different parts of South Sudan, and how they prefer matters to be conducted.

+ Preserving legacy:  They highlighted the resilience and contribution of the Kakuwa in shaping society.

What Do These Elections Mean for the Kakuwa?

For a long time, the Kakuwa have been misunderstood and underestimated among the tribes of South Sudan. Their humility has often been mistaken for weakness or taken advantage of.

This election, however, proved many assumptions wrong. It brought to the surface the hidden strengths of the Kakuwa, their unity, endurance and ability to live harmoniously with both neighbours and strangers. Unlike previous polls, this election offered transparency and visible participation, breaking old misconceptions about their place in society.

While many communities in South Sudan aspire to live in peace with others, they often struggle to adapt and build genuine trust across tribal lines. The Kakuwa have shown that peaceful coexistence is possible when built on shared values and openness.

The Broader Outlook

The elections in Kakuwa and Twic County set an important precedent. They demonstrated that South Sudanese communities are capable of organising themselves effectively. This is the kind of example that the nation needs as it continues to search for stability, unity and strong governance.

The public interest in these elections was remarkable, showing how eager people are for models of self management and good leadership. Politicians and government leaders should take note. The community has expressed its vision for the country, and leaders must be willing to listen and learn.

Conclusion

Having closely followed the election process, I am convinced that South Sudan has the potential to surprise the world. The best way of governance and coexistence already exists in the hearts of its people. It only needs to be manifested. This is not about hate, greed, or the pursuit of power, but about creating a society where what truly matters works for all.

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Agrey Cyrus Kanyikwa is a former commissioner of Yei River county local government and an experienced senior local government official in South Sudan.

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