Constitutionalism and the Rule of Law in South Sudan's Transition: A Qualitative Analysis

South Sudan's transition from a transitional government to a permanent constitution has been marked by challenges in establishing robust constitutionalism and the rule of law. Qualitative data from interviews with judges, lawyers, academics, and civil society organizations were analysed using thematic content analysis. Findings indicate that while there has been an increase in public engagement through participatory forums, the implementation of constitutional principles remains uneven across different regions of South Sudan. The study highlights the need for sustained efforts to strengthen judicial independence and enhance legal compliance throughout the country. Recommendations include fostering a more inclusive judiciary, promoting transparency in public participation processes, and ensuring equitable distribution of resources to support constitutional education initiatives.