Fr. Paul Igweta of AMECEA urged South Sudan’s churches to take a lead role in creating a peaceful environment for constitutional-making. During a workshop, he highlighted the Church’s historical contribution to democratic processes and called for a participatory approach involving all sectors of society. NCRC officials likewise emphasized the importance of public engagement and the Church’s role in fostering political will. Bishop Kussala called for a well-crafted constitution to prevent future conflicts, especially ahead of elections.
Fr. Paul Munga’thia Igweta, the Coordinator for Promoting Integral Human Development (PIHD) at AMECEA, has called upon South Sudan’s churches to assume a pivotal role in fostering a peaceful environment conducive to a constitution reflecting the will of the people. During a three-day workshop focused on Civic Education and Observer Mission, he stressed the necessity for the Church’s engagement in the constitutional-making process.
Fr. Igweta emphasized the Church’s historical contributions to democratic processes, citing Kenya as an example where the Church significantly influenced constitutional reviews. He highlighted that constitution-making must involve all sectors of society, not solely the government or military, underscoring the participatory nature of democratic processes. As such, the Church has a unique opportunity to lead in establishing a participatory democracy.
The workshop, organized by the Association of Member Episcopal Conferences of Eastern Africa (AMECEA), included members of South Sudan’s National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC). NCRC Secretary-General John Natana Abraham provided an update on the commission’s achievements and challenges, reiterating the Church’s essential role in mobilizing political will and fostering a supportive environment for the ongoing constitutional efforts.
Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala, who heads the Integral Human Development Commission of the Sudan and South Sudan Bishops’ Conference, stressed the importance of a well-crafted constitution in preventing future conflicts, particularly ahead of elections. He encouraged proactive measures to prepare for the electoral process and emphasized the Church’s responsibility in raising awareness and amplifying community voices in this critical review process.
In reaffirming AMECEA’s commitment, Fr. Paul Igweta reiterated the organization’s dedication to assisting Bishops’ Conferences in initiatives aimed at peacebuilding and conflict resolution, highlighting the necessity of dialogue between the Church and political leaders to ensure a constitution that empowers the citizens of South Sudan.
In conclusion, the workshop convened by AMECEA underscores the critical role of the Church in South Sudan’s constitutional-making process. By engaging in dialogue and promoting public participation, the Church can help produce a constitution that reflects the people’s will and fosters unity. The insights shared by Fr. Igweta, Bishop Kussala, and Secretary-General Abraham indicate a collaborative approach towards establishing a peaceful and democratic future for South Sudan.
Original Source: communications.amecea.org
