South Sudan Prepares for First General Elections in 2026
After facing multiple delays since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan is gearing up to hold its first general elections in December 2026. Originally planned for 2023, the elections were pushed back to allow for crucial steps such as conducting a national census, drafting a permanent constitution, and registering political parties. The transitional government, under the leadership of President Salva Kiir, extended its term to facilitate these necessary preparations.
However, the road to the elections is not without obstacles. Budgetary constraints and concerns regarding readiness continue to pose challenges. Gabriel Deng, the deputy chair of the electoral commission, highlighted that essential processes like the census are at a standstill due to funding issues. The lack of progress in key areas has raised doubts about the country’s preparedness for the upcoming elections.
Nicholas Haysom, the head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, has cautioned against the risks of poorly managed elections, warning that such a scenario could potentially reignite violence in the region. He emphasized the critical need for trust-building measures and thorough preparation to ensure that the postponed elections are conducted smoothly and transparently.
SOURCE: VOA NEWS
