Southern Sudan: welcome to the newest country in the world

A new sign greets passengers disembarking from the flight that carried them to Juba International Airport. The message is simple yet deeply moving, "Welcome to 193rd Country of the World." Southern Sudan's formal independence begins on July 9th, a day that will officially launch the new Republic of South Sudan. Millions have sacrificed their lives, blood, and livelihood in the hopes that one day a new nation would be established for their children and grandchildren. A nation that respects religious, cultural, economic, and political freedoms while providing the stability that ensures their continued enjoyment. That day, when the Republic of South Sudan's flag is hoisted and the Republic of Sudan flag is lowered, is on the horizon.

The ACLJ was honored to be invited by the Government of Southern Sudan's (GoSS) Office of the President to visit Juba and meet with government and business leaders on a multitude of issues. As the ACLJ's expertise is primarily constitutional and international law and government affairs; our first meeting was with the Minister of Legal Affairs and Constitutional Development. There will be a full rewrite of South Sudan's constitution and ACLJ experts will be assisting in a number of ways. Initially, we are planning for the establishment of legal training programs in Juba. Legal education is important as many southern Sudanese lawyers were trained either outside Sudan or at Islamic law institutions in Khartoum. These programs will hopefully develop into the establishment of a fully functioning law school in South Sudan. Even in a country without a single traffic light and few paved roads, leaders know that the rule of law is key to development and sustainability.

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Please note that in discussing political issues, candidates positions and political party statements, Jordan Sekulow is offering analysis in his individual capacity as lawyer and commentator. He is not speaking on behalf of the American Center for Law & Justice. The ACLJ does not endorse or oppose candidates for public office. Nothing contained in this article should be construed as the position of the ACLJ.