27/09/2024
STATEMENT FROM THE COMMON PEOPLES ALLIANCE (CPA) ON THE RIGHT TO PEACEFUL PROTEST IN SOUTH SUDAN
Juba, South Sudan
26th September 2024
The Common Peoples Alliance (CPA) would like to remind the people and government of South Sudan of the fundamental right to peaceful protest, a cornerstone of any functioning democracy. As enshrined in Article 25 of the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan (2011, as amended), every citizen has the right to freely assemble, protest, and express their views, especially when decisions made by those in power can have far-reaching consequences for the future of our country.
Recently, the CPA submitted a formal request to hold peaceful demonstrations in opposition to the unilateral extension of the transitional period—a decision made without broad public consultation nor the input of political parties or civil society. The CPA's request was submitted in full accordance with constitutional rights. However, the National Security Service (NSS), responsible for reviewing such requests, chose not to approve the peaceful protest. Despite this decision, we want to reassure the people that the CPA remains committed to engaging with the government and the NSS on the importance of upholding citizens' rights to peacefully petition their government. These protests are not calls for regime change but rather a means of holding those in power accountable for decisions made without inclusive consultation.
When the government makes decisions without involving its citizens, people must have space to express their concerns, ask questions, and advocate for better governance. This is the core of a healthy democracy, where the relationship between the government and the people is built on mutual respect, openness, and accountability.
The Role of Peaceful Protests in a Democracy
Peaceful protests are among the most important and effective tools for citizens to engage with their government. They offer a non-violent way for people to express dissatisfaction or concerns about policies and decisions directly affecting their lives. These protests are not about undermining the government; they are essential for ensuring that those in power remain accountable to the people. A government that allows and listens to peaceful protest demonstrates its respect for the voices of its citizens, showing a willingness to engage in dialogue and improve where needed.
The Importance of Democratic Governance and Citizen Participation
The CPA strongly believes that a government functions best when it works with its people, allowing their voices to be heard and their concerns addressed. The following are the benefits of a democratic governance system that actively includes citizen participation:
1. Building Trust and Legitimacy
Governments that listen to their citizens and permit peaceful protests foster an atmosphere of trust. When citizens feel that their voices are being heard and respected, the government's legitimacy is strengthened. Decisions made with public input are more likely to be respected as they reflect the shared interests of the nation.
2. Promoting Stability and Preventing Unrest
Allowing citizens to express their concerns peacefully helps to prevent unrest. When people are denied the opportunity to speak out, their grievances often remain unresolved, leading to frustration and, eventually, more serious forms of unrest. Peaceful protests serve as a safety valve, allowing the government to address public grievances before they escalate.
3. Improving Policy and Governance
Governments that work alongside their citizens frequently make better-informed decisions. Citizens often provide first-hand insights into the challenges and issues they face in their daily lives. Inclusive governance ensures that policies are based on the real needs of the people, resulting in more effective and relevant decisions.
4. Strengthening South Sudan's International Reputation
Countries that respect democratic principles and allow peaceful protests are viewed more favorably by the international community. This improves the country's international credibility, which can lead to increased foreign investment, stronger diplomatic relations, and greater international partnerships. On the other hand, when democratic rights are suppressed, countries often face diplomatic isolation and a loss of international trust, which hinders national progress.
Consequences of Suppressing Peaceful Protests and Citizen Engagement
While allowing peaceful protests strengthens democratic governance, the suppression of these rights leads to numerous negative consequences:
1. Erosion of Public Trust
When the government denies citizens their right to protest or express concerns peacefully, it erodes the trust between the people and the state. Citizens begin to feel disconnected from the political process, leading to a breakdown in the relationship between the government and the governed. Without trust, it becomes increasingly difficult for the government to effectively lead.
2. Increased Risk of Instability
Oppression of peaceful protests often fuels anger and resentment. When citizens are denied their right to express concerns non-violently, they may resort to more aggressive or violent means. Throughout history, we have seen how silencing dissent can lead to social unrest and destabilization, as people feel they have no choice but to fight for their rights.
3. Undermining National Unity
Governments that refuse to listen to their people's voices risk dividing the nation. When citizens feel excluded from decision-making and are denied their democratic rights, they feel alienated. This weakens national unity, making it harder for the country to address its most pressing challenges in a collective and unified manner.
4. Damaged International Reputation
Governments seen as oppressing their people or denying fundamental democratic rights often suffer damage to their international standing. This can lead to sanctions, reduced international support, and strained diplomatic relationships. Without international partnerships and goodwill, the country's ability to advance economically and politically becomes severely limited.
The Way Forward
The CPA believes that South Sudan's future lies in democratic governance, where the people's voices are respected and peaceful protests are seen as a positive force for accountability and dialogue. We call on the Government of South Sudan to uphold its constitutional obligations and protect the right of its citizens to peacefully protest.
These protests do not threaten governance but are a vital component of any healthy democracy. By allowing peaceful protests, the government provides a platform for citizens to engage with their leaders, ensuring that governance is inclusive and reflects the people's will.
The CPA will continue to engage with the government and the National Security Service (NSS) on citizens' rights to peacefully petition their government. We believe that by working with the people, the government can strengthen trust, foster national unity, and create a stable environment for long-term growth and prosperity. However, denying the people their democratic rights and suppressing their voices risks destabilizing the country and undermining the foundations of its legitimacy.
The CPA remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the people of South Sudan and advocating for a future grounded in peace, justice, and accountability.
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