uba, South Sudan — April 4, 2026:
South Sudan has marked a powerful milestone in its legal history as a visually impaired law graduate successfully passed the Bar examinations and was formally admitted as an advocate, breaking long-standing barriers in the country’s justice system.
Advocate Charles Pascual Clement, a visually impaired graduate of the University of Juba’s School of Law, was among the 219 newly admitted lawyers sworn in during the South Sudan Bar Association’s ceremony held in Juba earlier this week. This year’s cohort included 33 women and one visually impaired candidate, making Clement’s entry into the profession a landmark moment for disability inclusion.
Clement, who completed his law degree in 2017, has long been recognized for his dedication to advocacy and disability rights. He leads the South Sudan Blind Football Association and serves on the executive board of the national Paralympic Committee. His journey to becoming a licensed advocate has been described as an embodiment of resilience, commitment, and excellence.
He and fellow visually impaired advocate Mawut Louise—also a graduate of the University of Juba—have been vocal champions for a more inclusive justice system. Both have consistently challenged stereotypes, demonstrating that disability is neither a limitation nor an obstacle to professional achievement.
Their success is being hailed as a turning point for South Sudan’s legal sector, inspiring countless others living with disabilities and reinforcing the need for accessible legal education and equal opportunities.
As they step into active legal practice, these advocates are not only entering courtrooms but also shaping conversations about equity, representation, and reform within the justice system.
