Yambio — The leader of South Sudan’s National Progress Party (NPP), the opposition party in Western Equatoria State, Paul Luke Lustico, on Thursday urged the government to create a supportive political and civic space in the state.
Mr. Luke told Sudans Post on Thursday that the opening of civil and political space will allow political parties to hold political gatherings without the security agents interfering.
“I am calling upon the Government of National Unity and the international community to provide political space for all political parties within the country,” Luke said.
According to Luku, this will also allow the parties to express their right to free speech, enshrined under the 2011 Constitution of South Sudan.
“We urge the peace signatories of the South Sudan Peace Agreement, including the Peace Granters, to intervene and advise the parties to ensure that political space is extended to all political organizations,” he said.
He emphasized the necessity of fostering an environment in which politicians may freely attend rallies and freely voice their opinions.
“This must include non-signatory parties to engage in South Sudan’s political processes, particularly as the country approaches the 2026 general elections.”
He urged the government to take the necessary steps to create an environment conducive to holding peaceful, fair, and credible elections in December 2026.
“This act of intimidation not only undermines political engagement but also prevents South Sudanese citizens from accessing essential services, as political parties are crucial for the system of checks and balances that is needed in any democratic society.”
The National Progress Party (NPP) was established in 2020.
