By Sabri Dibaco
The African Union (AU) has reaffirmed its support for inter-party dialogue and South Sudan’s 2026 elections.
On Thursday, President Salva Kiir Mayardit and a visiting AU delegation headed by Jakaya Kikwete, AU High Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, held discussions in Juba.
According to a statement issued by the Presidential Press Unit (PPU), the meeting focused on advancing peace, stability, and democratic governance as the country prepares for elections scheduled for December 2026.
In the statement, the AU reiterated its commitment to supporting South Sudan’s transition and electoral roadmap.
“The African Union has expressed strong support for South Sudan’s path toward the December 2026 elections, ongoing inter-party dialogue,” the statement partly read.
The AU through the delegation also expressed support for the country’s judicial processes, emphasizing the importance of legal reforms in strengthening democratic institutions.
“The meeting highlighted growing alignment between South Sudan and the African Union on key political, legal, and transitional priorities as the country advances toward elections.
The upcoming polls are widely viewed as a critical milestone for consolidating peace and strengthening democratic institutions,” the statement added.
Addressing the media after the meeting, Kikwete described his visit as an important step in engaging directly with stakeholders across the country.
He said the consultations would help shape the AU’s approach in supporting South Sudan’s transition.
“This is the first time I am talking to all the stakeholders, getting briefings about the situation in the country, getting advice on the specific issues and needs,” he told the media.
According to the Office of the President, the discussions underscored the importance of sustained interparty dialogue as a central pillar for consensus-building and ensuring a peaceful electoral environment.
The AU delegation stressed that inclusive political engagement remains essential in preventing tensions and fostering trust among competing political actors ahead of the polls.
The statement further noted that the AU welcomed South Sudan’s decision to amend provisions of the peace agreement in line with established legal frameworks.
“The African Union also expressed support for South Sudan’s decision to amend provisions of the Revitalized Agreement in accordance with Article 8.4 of the R-ARCSS, recognizing it as a legitimate process within the framework of the agreement,” the statement partly read.
The Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) forms the cornerstone of South Sudan’s ongoing transition, outlining key steps toward peace, governance reforms, and democratic elections following years of conflict.
Kikwete noted that the current engagement builds on previous regional and international efforts, including the C5 and Pretoria meetings, which he said have contributed to a more unified approach in supporting South Sudan’s transition.
“The outcomes of these engagements will be presented to the African Union as we work together with the Government of South Sudan to support the transition,” Kikwete emphasized.
He reaffirmed the AU’s commitment to supporting the country in achieving lasting peace, security, and stability, alongside the successful conduct of elections in December 2026.
The envoy also made it clear that the transitional timeline would not be extended.
“There will be no extension,” he said.
On his part, President Salva Kiir reiterated his government’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability, as well as ensuring that the country remains on course toward the planned elections.
The AU’s renewed backing comes at a critical time for South Sudan, as the country works to implement key provisions of the peace agreement, including security arrangements, institutional reforms, and preparations for credible elections.
The December 2026 polls are expected to mark the first national elections since independence and are widely regarded as a defining moment in the country’s political transition.