Political instability and freedom of expression: a case of juba, South Sudan.

Abstract

Political instability and the erosion of democratic freedoms remain critical challenges in many post-conflict states, and South Sudan represents a compelling case. Since gaining independence in 2011, the country particularly its capital, Juba has struggled to establish sustainable political stability and guarantee the democratic freedoms envisioned at independence. The study examines the impact of political instability on democratic freedoms in Juba, focusing on freedom of speech, assembly, press, and political participation. The research adopted a qualitative case study design. A total of 161 respondents were purposively selected, comprising civil society leaders, politicians, government officials, local community members, journalists, and opinion leaders. Data were collected through interviews, focus group, questionnaire and analyzed thematically to assess perceptions of instability and its effects on democratic governance. Findings indicate that political instability in Juba is deeply rooted in ethnic divisions, power struggles, ineffective peace agreements, historical inequalities, weak reconciliation mechanisms, and governance failures. A significant majority of respondents linked the 2013 conflict and subsequent power-sharing arrangements to deepened political and ethnic fragmentation. Many also identified poor resource management, economic grievances, and the absence of effective justice and reconciliation processes as drivers of continued instability. The study further reveals that political instability has had a pervasive and multidimensional impact on democratic freedoms. Respondents overwhelmingly reported restrictions on freedom of speech, with individuals often silenced or punished for expressing dissenting or politically sensitive views. Although some freedom exists in less sensitive matters, high-profile political issues remain constrained. Freedom of assembly has similarly been limited, with frequent bans, permit requirements, and suppression of peaceful protests. Media freedom has been significantly affected through censorship, intimidation, closure of outlets, and threats against journalists, particularly when covering politically sensitive topics. Government policies and actions were widely perceived as ineffective in mitigating instability and, in many cases, as exacerbating restrictions on democratic space. While certain legal provisions formally protect freedoms, respondents noted that these laws are often selectively implemented or violated, and judicial and institutional mechanisms remain weak in upholding rights. At the same time, civil society and international organizations were recognized as playing a positive role in advocating for and safeguarding democratic freedoms despite constrained operating environments. Overall, the study concludes that political instability in Juba has significantly undermined democratic freedoms, creating a restrictive political environment characterized by limited civic space, weakened institutions, and constrained citizen participation. The findings underscore the urgent need for structural reforms, inclusive governance, effective rule of law, and strengthened institutional safeguards to break the cycle of instability and democratic erosion in South Sudan.