3232: Restoring Public Trust in South Sudan Through Accountability and Transparency

On Democracy in Action, host Sani Martin, live from Juba, spoke with independent advocate John Gerry and UNMISS rule of law officer Nyinypiu Rekeboam Madit about rebuilding public trust in South Sudan through stronger accountability and transparency under the rule of law. The guests noted that the 2011 Transitional Constitution establishes the separation of powers, public financial accountability, and the protection of rights, but many citizens still worry about corruption, weak enforcement, and a lack of openness. Gehry said parliament should revive thorough vetting of public appointees and ensure asset declarations are followed as key safeguards against abuse, while Madit pointed to ongoing judicial reforms under the revitalized peace agreement, including efforts to deploy judges to remote areas and clear case backlogs. Listeners raised questions on whether vetting can reduce corruption, what the Anti-Corruption Commission can and cannot do, whether asset declarations are required and accessible, and how access to information can limit misinformation and strengthen trust between citizens and state institutions.