LAP Lambert Academic Publishing POLITICAL CONFLICT IN GENDER PARTICIPATION IN GOVERNMENTS OF SUDAN: GENDER PARTICIPATION IN GOVERNMENTS OF SUDAN IN THE CONTEXT OF POLITICAL CONFLICT: 1965 - 2007

The research examined gender participation in governments of Sudan in the context of political conflict.It focused on the Government of National Unity and Government of Southern Sudan, some institutions like the University of Juba and others were also examined The findings of the study revealed political conflict in the participation of gender in the Government of National Unity and the Government of Southern Sudan. There are two systems of legislation in one country: Sharia law in Northern Sudan and customs and traditions in Southern Sudan. In Sharia law women are unequal to men- men are the Guardians of women The Government of Southern Sudan has some customs and traditions impacting negatively on gender participation in Government of Southern Sudan.There is entrenchment of 25% Affirmative Action in the Constitution of Southern Sudan for the participation of women in public life. The way forward to peaceful and harmonious society ,in the author's view is for Sudan to revert to secularism,otherwise this may impact negatively on the unity of Sudan as the South is expected to go for referendum in 2011 to vote for unity or secession About the Author Philister Baya Lawiri is a graduate of Rural Development from University of Juba. She also holds an M.A. degree in Peace and Development Studies from the same University. She is a Gender and Human Rights Activist. She works as Administration Manager in Ivory Bank and is also a Member of National Elections Commission of Sudan.