South Sudan chief justice has issued a circular directing all judges across the country to write their judgments exclusively in English beginning June 1, 2026, with a six-month transition period provided for implementation.

The circular, signed by Justice Dr. Benjamin Baak Deng, Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court, on May 13, 2026, states that the decision is in line with Article 6(2) of the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan 2011, which designates English as the official working language of the Republic.

“In light of the foregoing, and in exercise of the powers vested in me under Article 127(1) (a) and (b) of the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan, I do hereby issue Judicial Circular No. 1/2026,” the document reads.

The circular further directs that, “All judges in the Republic of South Sudan shall write their judgments in English with effect from 1st June, 2026 and within the period of six months from the date stated herein.”

According to the document seen by Eye Radio, the Constitution takes precedence over all other laws under Article 3, rendering invalid any legislation inconsistent with it. The Judiciary noted that the Civil Procedure Act of 2007, which recognized both English and Arabic as official court languages, contradicts the constitutional provision and is therefore superseded.

The circular also referenced the legal principle “Posterior Derogat Priori,” meaning a later law repeals an earlier conflicting law, emphasizing that newer legislation reflects the latest intention of lawmakers and should prevail in cases of contradiction.

The Judiciary linked the move to South Sudan’s obligations under the East African Community Treaty Act 2026, aimed at harmonizing national laws with those of the regional bloc following the country’s accession to the community.

“South Sudan has domesticated the treaty of the East African Community with view to harmonize the laws of South Sudan with the laws of the Community,” the circular stated.

To support the transition, the Judiciary said it would work with partners, the School of Law at the University of Juba, and other higher learning institutions recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education to strengthen judges’ English language skills.

“The Judiciary, with the support of its partners shall in collaboration with School of Law, University of Juba, and any other Higher Education Institution recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education in South Sudan shall exert efforts towards this goal within available resources,” the circular reads.

Judges were also encouraged to improve their language and professional skills.

“All judges are encouraged to take any opportunity of English language course or training seriously including improvement of their handwriting by way of self-fulfilment,” the document added.

The Judiciary announced that by January 2027 it would review the implementation progress and take appropriate measures against judges who remain unable to write judgments in English.

“By January 2027, the Judiciary shall review progress of the implementation of this Judicial Circular with view to taking appropriate action with respect to those who will still be unable to write their judgments in English,” the circular warned.