South Sudan's president orders acceleration of justice system reforms in preparation for elections.

The President of South Sudan Sudan First Lieutenant General Salva Kiir Mayardit stressed the need to accelerate the reform of the justice system and enhance its efficiency, in order to ensure the consolidation of the rule of law and the achievement of justice, within the framework of the ongoing preparations for the upcoming democratic elections.

The directives came during his meeting with the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Michael Makuei Luet, in the capital, Juba, where a number of files related to the legal sector and human rights were reviewed.

Legal sector reform 

During the meeting, the Minister of Justice gave a comprehensive briefing to the President of the Republic on the progress of work within the Ministry, explaining the efforts made within the comprehensive reform plan aimed at developing the legal sector and raising the efficiency of judicial institutions.

The minister also reviewed the results of his participation in the Human Rights Council meetings in Geneva, and the issues raised concerning strengthening the protection of human rights and improving the quality of legal services provided to citizens.

The minister affirmed that the ministry continues to implement programs to develop the legal and institutional structure, which contributes to raising the efficiency of performance and improving the effectiveness of the justice system in the country.

Developments in legal proceedings

The meeting also addressed the latest developments in prominent judicial cases, with the Minister of Justice briefing the President on the progress of legal proceedings in the case of Phut Kang and those accused with him of serious crimes.

He stressed that the trial is proceeding well in accordance with the approved legal procedures, and is approaching its final stages, within the framework of the state’s keenness to apply the law and ensure the achievement of justice.

Presidential directives before the elections

For his part, President Salva Kiir welcomed the report, stressing the importance of accelerating the pace of reform in the justice sector and ensuring its integrity and independence.

He pointed out that these reforms represent a national priority at the present stage, especially with the approaching preparations for the democratic elections scheduled for this year, to ensure a stable and fair legal environment for the electoral process.

Judicial reform 

These directives reflect the leadership’s keenness in South Sudan to strengthen the link between legal reforms and upcoming political entitlements, thereby supporting political stability and enhancing citizens’ confidence in state institutions. These efforts also aim to support the path of democratic transition and consolidate the principles of justice and the rule of law.