REBELLION OPTIMISM AND POLITICAL REFORMS IN SOUTH SUDAN

2024-02-20T18:23:27-06:00

After its 22-year war of independence, the Republic of South Sudan has survived numerous armed rebellions attempting to force political reforms. This has happened despite the availability of various peaceful options which have been used elsewhere in the world to introduce political reforms. These peaceful options include: peaceful protests, democratic elections, national dialogue, and parliamentary legislation. In South Sudan however, these options have never become a priority for political leaders seeking political reforms. Studies indicate that rebellions have led to infernal consequences such as the loss of human lives, wanton destruction property, massive civil displacement, economic crises, and the collapse of national institutions. Because these consequences are severe, the rebellions in South Sudan are arguably just—but taking different dynamics leading to further destruction and a risk of state failure, one wonders: what makes political leaders become optimistic in choosing rebellion over peaceful options to force political reforms? Choosing rebellion over peaceful alternatives is what this paper refers to as “rebellion optimism”. Leaders become positive about the potential outcomes of their choice of rebellion as a means of forcing the political reforms they desire. The paper is divided into three sections including: post-Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) and post-independence political transition; post-CPA and post-independence military arrangements; and citizen participation in governance. The study argues that misgovernment has undermined security sector reforms and citizen participation in public affairs. This has resulted in the persistent increase of dissenting voices that give hope to political dissidents, who in turn offer the promise alternative government that can be achieved through rebellion. Rebellion optimists have exploited citizens’ dissatisfaction with wanting government services as a main tool to mobilize them to fight the government.

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP AND CULTURAL DEMOCRACY IN EAST AFRICA (EAC)

2024-03-10T12:59:40-05:00

Sustainable development is a critical goal for nations across the globe, particularly in regions like East Africa where socio-economic challenges are prevalent. This document explores the role of effective leadership and cultural democracy in fostering sustainable development in East Africa. Drawing on scholarly literature, case studies, and expert opinions, it examines how leadership practices and cultural values can be leveraged to address environmental, economic, and social concerns. By promoting inclusivity, participatory decision-making, and respect for diverse cultural identities, East African countries can embark on a path towards sustainable development. This paper provides insights and recommendations for policymakers, community leaders, and stakeholders to promote sustainable development through effective leadership and cultural democracy in East Africa. From the findings East Africa encompasses a diverse array of nations, cultures, and ecosystems. While the region holds immense potential for economic growth and development, it also faces significant challenges such as poverty, environmental degradation, and social inequality. Achieving sustainable development in East Africa requires innovative approaches that integrate effective leadership and cultural democracy into policy and decision-making processes. As any organizations culture is formed by its history, vision, values, practices, behaviors, beliefs, routine people its business and how people relate and communicate. Best leaders are those with the ability to relate and guide better working and living relationships among citizens. By advocating for effective leadership that respect and interpret East African cultural values into democratic process. The research aims to promote strategies for fostering inclusive development that aligns with local norms and tradition.

Reviewed International Journal of Political Science and Public Administration

REBELLION OPTIMISM AND POLITICAL REFORMS IN SOUTH SUDAN

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP AND CULTURAL DEMOCRACY IN EAST AFRICA (EAC)