Youth Warned Against Becoming Political Pawns Ahead of Elections

(JUBA) – South Sudanese youth have been urged to reject hate speech and refuse to be used as political pawns ahead of the general elections set for December 2026.

The call was made by the Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, Rt. Hon. Joseph Ngere Paciko, on the closing day of a workshop organised by the Political Parties Youth Forum.

The African Union provided financial support for the workshop, which was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Peace Building. The event focused on peaceful elections and democratic participation.

Speaker Paciko said youth have a legitimate and constitutional role to play within political parties. He urged participants to show responsible conduct and discipline, and to serve as ambassadors of peace and national unity across South Sudan.

He also said Parliament is prepared to support a credible, peaceful and democratic electoral process in 2026.

In a separate development, the Transitional National Legislative Assembly held a formal reception of tribute in honour of the late Hon. Eng. Anthony Kudus Justin, a former member of parliament.

Presiding over the sitting, Speaker Paciko delivered a eulogy that noted the late legislator’s service and legacy within the House. He spoke of the deceased’s contributions to structuring the parliamentary service commission, constituency representation and national legislative work.

The Speaker urged mourners, colleagues and fellow members of parliament to reflect on their own service and to dedicate themselves to public duty.

Speaker Paciko also announced that Parliament intends to put in place a structured tribute framework and to adopt Standing Order provisions for motions of condolence.

He said the proposed demonstrative tribute system will ensure that tributes to deceased members are conducted in a dignified, consistent and procedurally recognised manner in future sittings.