16 August 2010 - Members of the Southern Sudan Human Rights Commission (SSHRC) elected a nine-member steering committee today to oversee its activities as the region approaches the 2011 self-determination referendum.

The elected chairperson of the committee, Taban Cristop of the South Sudan Law Society, said civil society had a major role to play in assisting people exercise their rights in the referendum, a key milestone in determining the destiny of Southern Sudanese.

"We have a lot to do during the upcoming referendum and this requires working together and being united," said Mr. Cristop.

Representatives from 27 Juba-based civil society organizations attended the meeting, which was hosted by the UNMIS Human Rights Section.

Moses Opio was elected Deputy Chairman, Lilian Achan Secretary and Coordinator and Daniel Oyuru Treasurer.

The steering committee will spearhead a membership drive to bring on board more civil society organizations and conduct capacity-building activities in the south.

"You are the voices of the voiceless and a bridge between the people and authorities," UNMIS Human Rights Director Benedict Sannoh told participants.

"Being organized helps the civil society organizations obtain solidarity and gain strength to bring an impact," the director added.

Participants discussed representation of different civil societies and inclusion of underrepresented groups like women and disabled persons in the steering committee.

Created by presidential decree in 2006, the Human Rights Commission upholds, protects and promotes human rights in Southern Sudan.

UNMIS provides technical and material support to human rights actors in the region, including the Commission. UNMIS plans to conduct basic human rights and report-writing training for civil society organizations in Juba later this month.