Yei Citizens Engage in National Constitution Review

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – The National Constitutional Review Commission has launched its public consultation process in Yei River County, Central Equatoria State, as part of efforts to collect citizens’ views on amendments to South Sudan’s national constitution.

The consultative meeting held on Friday brought together county leaders, civil society representatives and residents of Yei. The session aimed to allow citizens to share opinions that will inform the next stage of drafting proposed constitutional amendments.

Augustine Aremo Ernest, the Deputy Chairperson of the National Constitution Review Committee, said the team is moving across the country to listen to citizens. “We are here to gather views from the people so that the constitution reflects their needs and aspirations,” he said.

He stressed the importance of public participation, saying, “Every citizen has the right to contribute to the constitution making process. Without the voices of the people, the constitution cannot truly represent the nation.”

Aremo praised the strong turnout in Yei and the quality of contributions made by participants. “The ideas shared here are insightful and have value beyond the county. They are important for the whole country,” he told the meeting.

The Commissioner of Yei River County, Hon. Emmanuel Taban Seme, welcomed the review team and encouraged residents to speak freely. “This is your opportunity to shape the future of our country. Do not fear to express your views,” he said.

He added that the participation of Yei residents would be remembered in the history of South Sudan. “What you contribute today will form part of our national journey and our constitutional record,” the Commissioner said.

Hon. Emmanuel Taban Seme urged stakeholders to take the information gathered seriously. “Understanding the constitution is key to good governance and to strengthening unity among our people,” he said.

During the open discussion, John Hillary Konga called for stronger implementation of laws. “It is not enough to write good laws. They must be implemented so that citizens can trust the legal system that governs them,” he said.

Another participant, Malish Noel, appealed for a democratic federal system of government. “Federalism can help reduce corruption and ensure that national resources are shared fairly among all regions,” he said.

He also spoke on security sector reform, saying, “Recruitment should be based on merit and education so that firearms are not misused and our communities become safer.”

Robert Amin Lasuba raised concerns over land ownership, calling for stronger community rights. “Land should belong to the local communities and be regulated by the government. When individuals control vast areas of land, it often leads to conflict,” he said.

The National Constitutional Review Committee said it will continue collecting views from counties across Central Equatoria State and other parts of South Sudan before drafting the proposed constitutional amendments.

Main issues raised during the Yei consultation

The consultations in Yei highlight the growing involvement of local communities in shaping South Sudan’s constitutional future.