Authorities and development partners in Yei River County of Central Equatoria State have launched a civic and voter education project to promote peaceful participation in democratic processes and prevent election-related violence ahead of the general elections slated for 22 December.
The initiative, dubbed “Raising Civil Voices,” will be implemented in Yei Town Payam, Morobo and Kaya through civic and voter education, peacebuilding, conflict resolution and community engagement.
The project, implemented by Reconcile International, seeks to strengthen citizens’ understanding of democratic participation while promoting dialogue, mediation and community-based conflict prevention.
Speaking during the launch on Monday, Reconcile International Programme Manager Geri Moses said the initiative aims to support peaceful, inclusive and violence-free electoral processes through community dialogue, mediation and early warning mechanisms.
“This project aims to create awareness on issues related to elections, voter education, and awareness. Our citizens have the right to know what they are supposed to do,” he said. “When the time comes, all of us eligible should register and vote for people of our choice. This is a decision that will make changes, either positive or negative, in our country.”
“I want to encourage everybody to be peaceful because this is the only way that we can take our country from violence to peace and development,” Geri added.
For his part, Reverend Peter Mawa Arona, the Anglican Bishop Commissary, welcomed the initiative, saying civic and voter education is essential in empowering citizens to make informed electoral choices and in helping the country overcome decades of conflict.
“We are tired of the things that are not yet organized. We need to vote so that we can organize our country,” he said. “We are praying so that the elections can happen and stabilize our country and lead to development.”
Meanwhile, Yei River County Caretaker Commissioner Emmanuel Taban Seme urged local leaders to report security threats and political intimidation in their communities to relevant authorities.
“If someone comes to your home to intimidate you, just call me or any other security organ or police station. We are doing civic education so that no one harasses or intimidates anyone,” he said. “To the community leaders, your role is similar to mine. When a candidate comes for campaigns, you should not become their campaign manager because that is when you get yourself into problems with others. Allow their campaign teams to do their job, but not you.”
Commissioner Taban also clarified that formal political campaigns have not yet started, pending an official announcement by the National Elections Commission.
“The ongoing political activities are party primaries and should not be mistaken for official election campaigns,” he said. “When the time for campaigns starts, everyone will have the chance to campaign.”
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