Luise Amtsberg, Commissioner for Human Rights Policy and Humanitarian Assistance at the German Federal Foreign Office. | Photo: Courtesy.

The German Commissioner for Human Rights calls on the South Sudan government to ensure civic and political space as well as press freedom while gearing up for the first general elections.

Luise Amtsberg who is also the Humanitarian Assistance at the German Federal Foreign Office made the remarks while concluding her three-day visit to South Sudan on Sunday, 16 April 2023.

She met different stakeholders including civil society, NGOs and government representatives and discussed Germany’s work in South Sudan and ways to improve the human rights situation in South Sudan.

“South Sudan is at a critical juncture. As the country prepares for elections, it is vital that the Government of South Sudan ensure the meaningful participation of civil society, women and youth,” she said in a statement.

“Germany stands ready to continue to support South Sudan on its road toward free, fair, and peaceful elections.”

“However, for democratic elections to take place, civic space must be opened and journalists allowed to operate without fear of intimidation, violence, and arbitrary arrest.”

The rights official discussed the significance of the participation of women and girls in the peace process and the need to fight sexual and gender-based violence.

“I was deeply moved to hear about the hopes and dreams of South Sudanese women and girls. Hopes that they can live in peace and safety without fear of sexual and gender-based violence,” she said.

“Hopes that women and girls can access education, health, and other gender-transformative public services. Hopes for a society that values women and girls as powerful agents of change.”

Luise also stressed the need for progress in the peace process and the importance of an inclusive and open environment as South Sudan starts preparing for elections.

“Germany is convinced that the full implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement remains crucial. The political parties must expedite their efforts and cooperate in good faith.”

“I am concerned that the latest tensions within the Government undermine efforts to implement the Revitalized Peace Agreement and jeopardize the timeline for the constitution-making and electoral processes.”

The German Federal Government Commissioner further welcomed South Sudan’s ratification of the Maputo Protocol, an African Charter seeking to protect the rights of women.

However, she said the step will only be able to effect change if the government of South Sudan backs them with the necessary political support and financial resources.