Courtesy|

Juba, December 9, 2025 — Marking International Anti-Corruption Day today, the South Sudan Human Rights Defenders Network (SSHRDN) is calling on national leaders and public institutions to act with integrity and address the systemic corruption that continues to undermine development, peace, and human rights across South Sudan.

Reflecting on the human impact of corruption James Bidal, Head of Secretariat said: “Corruption is a human rights violation. Every bribe and misappropriated fund denies South Sudanese people their rights to education, health, and security. There is no room for excuses; leaders must be held accountable.”

SSHRDN warns that corruption erodes public trust, impoverishes communities, and slows down peacebuilding and economic progress.

The network is urging stronger accountability mechanisms, transparent governance, and protections for citizens, whistleblowers, and civil society organizations reporting corruption.

Bidal reiterated a need for urgent collective action: “South Sudan cannot reach its full potential while corruption remains unchecked. We must reclaim our future together.”

The network calls on government institutions to strengthen anti-corruption enforcement, ensure transparency in public procurement and aid distribution, and empower citizens to report corruption without fear of retaliation.

“Corruption steals our future, and together we must reclaim it for the people,” Bidal concluded.