By Louis Loku
Three senior officials from South Sudan’s National Elections Commission (NEC) have traveled to Russia for advanced electoral training as part of preparations for the country’s anticipated 2026 general elections.
The Embassy of the Russian Federation in Juba announced that the training program is fully funded by the Russian government and is aimed at strengthening the capacity of South Sudan’s electoral institutions ahead of what would be the country’s first elections since independence in 2011.
In a statement released to the media, the embassy said the officials are currently undergoing specialised studies in Moscow following agreements reached between the two countries.
“As a result of the agreements reached, and at the expense of the Russian side, three leading specialists from the National Elections Commission of South Sudan were sent to Moscow for specialised training,” the statement read in part.
According to the embassy, the skills and experience gained during the program are expected to enhance preparations for the December 2026 elections.
“We believe that the skills and expertise acquired in the Russian capital will prove highly valuable in the preparation and conduct of elections in the Republic of South Sudan in December 2026,” the statement added.
Russia also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting South Sudan throughout the electoral process.
“The Russian side intends to continue supporting its South Sudanese partners in organising the country’s first-ever electoral process,” the embassy stated.
The development comes months after Moscow pledged support for South Sudan’s election roadmap, including training election personnel and providing technical assistance.
Russia has, in recent years, strengthened diplomatic ties with Juba and has repeatedly called on the international community to engage constructively with South Sudan rather than focusing solely on criticism of the transitional government.
South Sudan is expected to hold elections in December 2026 under the extended transitional roadmap, although concerns remain over security arrangements, funding, and the implementation of key provisions of the peace agreement.