BENTIU, Unity State, 5 August 2026 – The Unity State High Elections Committee and the National Elections Commission launched the state’s civic and voter education campaign in Bentiu on Wednesday, under the theme “Empowering Citizens for Democratic Participation, Peaceful Coexistence and Civil Duty.”
Speaking for the Governor of Unity State, Hon. Abraham Dak Ruazeal called the launch an important step in getting citizens ready for the elections. He said civic and voter education helps people understand their rights, what is asked of them, and why taking part in the electoral process matters. He asked participants to carry the message into their communities, and told eligible citizens to register once registration opens.
Hon. Gatluak Nyuot, speaking for the Unity State Legislative Assembly, said the Assembly backs the campaign. The work would put citizens in a position to choose their leaders by democratic means, he said, and move the country towards the end of the transitional period.
The Chairperson of the State High Elections Committee, Hon. George Kong Gattang, welcomed participants and set out what civic and voter education is for: elections that are peaceful, credible and open to everyone. He said voter registration is expected to begin in September, and called on eligible citizens to prepare to register.
Simon Chuol, Deputy Chairperson of the SPLM in Unity State, said the party is ready for peaceful elections, and that political competition should be conducted without intimidation or violence.
Simon Gatdet Beliew, who chairs the civil society organizations in Unity State, spoke about the part civil society plays in taking civic awareness to the grassroots. He said the organizations will teach citizens about the electoral process and act as independent watchdogs on transparency and accountability during the elections.
Mary Nyekun Diew, speaking for the women of Unity State, said women are ready to take an active part in the elections, and will support leaders who recognize what women contribute.
The Unity State Youth Chairlady, Nyedin Lual Gai, said young people are ready to take part in the electoral process, and called for them to be included at every stage of it.
The launch drew government officials, political parties, civil society organizations, and representatives of women and young people, along with members of the public.
Source: Bentiu Radio 99.0 FM