Political instability and its impact on human resource policies in local governments of Eastern Equatoria State and Juba South Sudan

Abstract This study investigates the profound impact of political instability on human resource (HR) policies within local government in Eastern Equatoria State, South Sudan, a nation grappling with persistent conflict and fragile governance. Drawing on Institutional Theory (DiMaggio & Powell, 2022; Adedoyin, F.F. et al., 2022), the research employs a conceptual framework (Fig. 1) that posits political instability, encompassing government disruption, conflict intensity, policy inconsistency, and security challenges, as key drivers of weakened HR policy formulation, implementation, and stability. Employing a phenomenological research design, this study captures the lived experiences of local government officials, revealing how these factors lead to a systemic breakdown in HRM. Findings highlight the erosion of institutional foundations, rampant politicization of appointments, severe delays in salary payments, and diminished staff motivation, ultimately hindering staff retention and policy continuity. Government capacity is identified as a crucial moderating variable, with its decline exacerbating these challenges. The study concludes that without immediate stabilization of salary payments, strengthening of merit-based recruitment, enhanced security for personnel, and rebuilding of institutional capacity, effective governance and service delivery remain elusive. Recommendations focus on integrating HRM with peacebuilding, fostering transparency, and prioritizing administrative functions to cultivate a more stable and motivated civil service.