By Jurugo Emmanuel Ogasto
South Sudanese refugees living in Adjumani District of the West Nile region, Uganda, have expressed their readiness to participate in the upcoming elections in South Sudan, calling on the government and electoral authorities to ensure a free, fair, and transparent electoral process.
In an interview with No. 1 Citizen Newspaper on Monday, several South Sudanese residents in Adjumani said they are eager to vote for leaders they believe can bring peace, stability, and development to the country.
Juru Florence, a student at Comboni Comprehensive College, said many South Sudanese youths living in Uganda are looking forward to taking part in the elections despite being away from their homeland.
“We are prepared to go and vote for leaders of our choice because we want a better future for South Sudan,” Florence said. “Young people want peace, education, and development that can help transform our country.”
Florence also urged the government and election officials to guarantee transparency throughout the election process to ensure that the outcome reflects the will of the people.
Toha Martin, a businessman in Adjumani, said South Sudanese refugees and nationals living in Uganda continue to closely follow political developments in their country and are hopeful that the elections will be conducted peacefully.
“We are ready to participate in the elections because every citizen has the right to choose their leaders,” Martin said. “The authorities should make sure the elections are free, transparent, and peaceful so that people can trust the results.”
Martin further appealed to political leaders and supporters to avoid violence, hate speech, and any actions that could destabilise the country during the election period.
Meanwhile, Diko Fiona, a retired doctor, called on the South Sudanese government to facilitate transportation for citizens living across Uganda so they can easily access polling stations when the elections take place.
“Many South Sudanese living in refugee settlements and towns across Uganda are willing to vote, but transportation is a major challenge,” Fiona explained. “The government should support its citizens abroad and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the elections.”
She added that a transparent and credible election would strengthen democracy and restore confidence among South Sudanese citizens both at home and abroad.
They collectively appealed to the government, electoral bodies, and political parties to maintain peace and unity before, during, and after the elections.
South Sudan continues preparations for its anticipated elections amid growing calls from citizens and regional stakeholders for democratic reforms, national reconciliation, and peaceful political transition.
For many South Sudanese living in Uganda, the upcoming elections symbolise hope for lasting peace and a brighter future for the nation.