Women-led organizations in Torit County, Eastern Equatoria, are calling on lawmakers to enact laws that punish perpetrators of violence against women.
Amito Joyce, Secretary of the Women-Led Network, emphasized that creating legislation to address violence, including child compensation, early marriages, and rape, would empower women to participate more fully in society.
She explained that many women are victims of violence but are often excluded from community participation due to stigma. “The government needs to enact laws that protect women from different types of violence, such as early marriage, rape, and child compensation. If there are laws that punish perpetrators, it would be beneficial.
A woman or girl who has been raped, for instance, may fear to join any group or political party because of stigma. But if there is a law that punishes those responsible, it will encourage women to participate and contribute to society.”
Meanwhile, Kulang Vicky Daniel, Executive Director of Women Relief Aid, stressed the importance of eradicating harmful cultural practices that hinder women from accessing their rights.
“During past conflicts, such as the Ayanyan wars, women and girls were the primary victims—raped, killed, and denied protection. Even in areas affected by conflict, women were not given their rights. We need to remove cultural practices that hinder women from accessing their full rights.”
Lucia Namachi, a lawmaker at the State Transitional Assembly, also encouraged women to actively participate in politics to fulfill the 35% affirmative action goal.
“Women must rise and join political parties. If we want to meet the 35% representation target, women can’t remain idle. Political positions are mostly held by men, so we need women to step up and represent their communities.
Whether you’re educated or not, joining a party will help you contribute to solving the problems of your people and fulfill the 35% target.”
