In the state capital of Kuajok, more than 25 participants representing the South Sudan National Police Service (SSNPS), civil society organizations, and the State High Elections Committee gathered for a four-day Training of Trainers (ToT) workshop. The training was organized by United Nations Police (UNPOL) under the auspices of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
“We’re not just here to secure ballot boxes,” said Lieutenant Colonel Andrea Santino Cuat of the National Police Service. “We’re here to protect people—to make sure no one is left behind, especially women and those with disabilities.”
A Shift in Security Thinking
Unlike traditional election security trainings focused solely on logistics and crowd control, this workshop took a broader approach. Discussions centered on gender-based violence prevention, accessibility, and inclusive policing—factors often missing in post-conflict electoral environments.
“Most women in my village don’t know why they should vote,” said civil society advocate Akech Deng. “Their husbands tell them not to, and those who try to speak up are sometimes harassed or attacked.”
Another participant, Awut Mayen Lueth, noted, “Even asking questions about politics can raise suspicion. The fear this causes silences many.”
These testimonies reinforced the urgent need for voter protection frameworks that go beyond security hardware to address social stigma, cultural barriers, and gender discrimination.
Lessons in Prevention, Not Just Reaction
The workshop introduced participants to international human rights frameworks, case studies on electoral violence, and the legal responsibilities of police under South Sudanese and international law.
“Women are the most affected during elections, yet often the least protected,” said Akech Deng. “It’s not just about getting to the polling station—it’s about safety, dignity, and freedom.”
Brigadier General Awou Nyariel, Director of the Criminal Investigation Division, offered a strategic shift in response tactics.
“When there is a protest, don’t rush in. Know who is leading. Engage. Control the situation—don’t escalate it,” he advised. “We are serving the communities. If the people trust us, the process can go well.”
Integrity and Trust at the Core
Major General Manyok Jurkuc Deng, Police Commissioner of Warrap State, emphasized the visibility and responsibility of officers.
“If we misbehave, it reflects on the whole institution,” he said. “We must be examples of discipline and integrity.”
Lt. Col. Cuat agreed: “The real task begins now—taking these lessons back to our teams and ensuring they are ready to protect every voter, regardless of gender or ability.”
A Promise of Peaceful, Inclusive Elections
As the training concluded, what remained was not just knowledge, but a shared commitment to make the upcoming elections a symbol of unity, not division.
“This election belongs to all of us,” said Cuat. “And that means protecting all of us, too.”
With rising anticipation across the country and growing international attention, efforts like these in Warrap State provide a glimpse into a South Sudan where policing is not just about force—but about protection, inclusion, and dignity.
