SRSG Nicholas Haysom speaks at press conference - Photo Credit: UNMISS

The head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), urged South Sudan to seize the opportunity of its constitution-making process to unite its people, laying a foundation of shared values, equality, and hope for a lasting peace.

In a moving address on the second day of the capacity-building session for South Sudan’s National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC) and the Council of States, Haysom emphasized the critical role a constitution plays in shaping a unified nation.

Drawing on South Africa’s experience in overcoming division and creating a unified society, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General shared powerful lessons from South Africa’s constitution-making journey during a key session in Juba on December 6.

In his speech, Haysom stressed that South Africa’s success in building a unified nation after apartheid stemmed from its ability to bring all people together under a common cause, with the constitution acting as the binding force.

Haysom, who witnessed South Africa’s transformative transition, remarked that the unity formed there — “as one nation to play against the rest of the world and win” — is an essential model for South Sudan.

Drawing parallels with the enthusiasm seen in South Sudan’s basketball players, he emphasized the deep desire for unity and shared expression among South Sudanese citizens.

“The constitution-making process is not just about drafting laws; it’s about shaping a nation’s future,” Haysom said. “It’s about instilling a sense of patriotism, shared belonging, and values, so every citizen feels equal before the law and within the state.”

He highlighted that the Constitution’s promise of equality must be upheld through a commitment from all sectors of society. The document, he argued, is not simply a legal text, but a solemn promise made to every citizen — one that cannot be broken without following the strictest procedures.

Haysom further noted that creating a constitution is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for any nation. He referred to it as a “biography” that reflects a country’s history, pain, and aspirations, with the ability to guide future generations toward a more just and unified society.

“This is your moment to appeal to the higher nature of your people,” he stated, emphasizing that the constitutional process can serve as a powerful tool to heal and unite a fractured nation.

As South Sudan stands at the crossroads of constitutional reform, Haysom’s message was clear: the country has the chance to establish a framework for lasting peace and equality. But achieving this, he stressed, requires a collective commitment to honour the values enshrined in the constitution, ensuring that all South Sudanese people, regardless of their backgrounds, are treated equally under the law.

In closing, Haysom urged the participants to remember that a successful constitution-making process is not only about legal procedures but about “drawing all South Sudanese together” to build a nation rooted in justice, unity, and shared dreams.