A traditional marriage practice among some Latuka communities in South Sudan is drawing renewed discussion online after accounts describing a custom of “abducting” a woman before seeking family approval went viral.
According to descriptions shared on social media, the custom differs from the courtship process common in many other societies. In the version described, a man who wishes to marry is expected to enlist other men to help take the woman he wants to his home without her prior agreement. He is then expected to inform her family afterward.
The accounts state that once the woman is at the suitor’s home, her father is notified. In the tradition as described, the father may respond by striking the suitor. That act is said to indicate whether he accepts or rejects the union. If he refuses consent, the suitor is said to have two options: return the woman or proceed with the marriage without the father’s approval. A later formal visit with male relatives is also described, where the father is presented with a yes or no decision.
Members of the Latuka community interviewed in past reports have described the practice as part of their customary “hand-in” marriage process. However, rights advocates argue that any form of marriage that begins with taking a woman against her will raises serious concerns about consent, bodily autonomy, and child protection.
South Sudan’s Constitution and the Child Act prohibit forced marriage and protect the rights of women and girls to choose a spouse freely and with full consent. The country also sets a minimum legal age for marriage. International conventions to which South Sudan is a party also emphasize free and informed consent in marriage.
The posts have generated a split reaction online. Some users say the practice should be understood within its cultural context and note that communities evolve their customs over time. Others contend that tradition cannot override a woman’s right to choose, and they have called for stronger enforcement of laws protecting girls and women from forced unions.
Women’s rights organizations in South Sudan say the priority is ensuring that any marriage is entered into voluntarily, with the woman’s full consent, and that girls are not pressured or removed from school. They also stress the importance of community dialogue led by elders, women, and youth.
Government and civil society groups have said they are working with traditional authorities to align customary practices with national law and human rights standards. Legal experts note that while culture is important, practices that involve taking a person without consent can lead to criminal liability under South Sudanese law…See More
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