OpEd

EDITORIAL: Business owners must keep their surroundings clean

Business owners must take responsibility for maintaining clean surroundings and complying with municipal regulations to promote public health and protect the environment. In Juba and other towns across South Sudan, cleanliness around business premises remains an important concern. Some shops, restaurants, markets and other commercial establishments operate without properly managing[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Examinations Council must tighten security against exam malpractice

The National Examinations Council must strengthen security measures to prevent examination malpractice and protect the credibility of national examinations in South Sudan. Examinations are an important part of the education system because they assess students’ knowledge, abilities and academic progress. However, examination malpractice undermines the purpose of education and creates[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Governments and donors must sustain funding to end polio

Polio remains a threat to children’s health and future, making sustained commitment and funding from governments and international donors essential to ending the disease. Every child deserves the opportunity to grow up healthy, and protecting that right requires continued investment in vaccination and public health services. Governments must prioritise immunisation[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Give all candidates a fair chance to campaign

As aspiring candidates continue to declare their intentions and run campaigns ahead of South Sudan’s December 22, 2026, general elections, citizens must respect others’ political rights and avoid interrupting activities organised by their opponents.   Elections are a democratic process in which citizens choose leaders they believe can represent their[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Government must intensify action against child trafficking

Child trafficking is a serious violation of human rights that threatens the safety, dignity, and future of children. The government must intensify efforts to prevent trafficking, identify perpetrators, and protect vulnerable children across South Sudan. Children are among the most vulnerable members of society and deserve protection from exploitation, abuse,[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Warring parties must protect health facilities and stop looting

Health facilities are essential institutions that provide life-saving services to communities, especially during periods of conflict. Warring parties across all states of South Sudan must protect hospitals, health centres and medical stores from looting, destruction, and other forms of violence. Healthcare is a basic human need that must never be[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Citizens’ faith should inspire peace, not violence during elections

As South Sudan prepares for the anticipated December 2026 general elections, citizens of all faiths have an important responsibility to promote peace, unity, and tolerance. Religious beliefs should bring people together, not become tools for political division, hatred, or violence. Faith occupies a significant place in the lives of many[Read More…]

NATION TALK: This nation must address trade barriers and secure the Juba–Nimule road

South Sudan must urgently address trade barriers and improve security along the Juba–Nimule Road to promote economic growth, protect traders, and reduce the cost of living for ordinary citizens. The Juba–Nimule Road is one of the country’s most important trade routes, connecting South Sudan to Uganda and other regional markets.[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Peace must begin from citizens, not others

Peace cannot be achieved by waiting for leaders, governments, or international partners to do everything for us. Every citizen has a responsibility to promote unity, resolve disputes peacefully, and protect the well-being of their community. In this country, lasting peace requires collective action. Communities must reject tribalism, revenge, hate speech,[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Government should focus on peaceful disarmament

South Sudan’s path toward lasting peace requires more than political agreements and security operations. It demands a sustained commitment to peaceful disarmament, community engagement, and the protection of civilian lives. The government must recognise that the widespread presence of small arms among civilians remains a serious challenge to public safety,[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Let every citizen have a chance to participate in politics

The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) has directed military personnel aspiring to contest the December 22, 2026, general elections to resign from active military service before entering the political race. The directive brings an important issue into public discussion: the need for individuals to respect professional boundaries and allow[Read More…]