By Sabri Dibaco
The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) has reaffirmed its readiness for South Sudan’s forthcoming general elections.
This followed the release of the national electoral calendar.
The party leadership described the development as a major step toward advancing the country’s democratic process and strengthening political preparedness.
The commitment was made during a meeting of the SPLM leadership chaired by the Party Chairman and President of the Republic, Salva Kiir Mayardit.
According to a press statement issued by the Office of the President, the meeting was attended by Second Deputy Chairperson Mary Apai and Third Deputy Chairman Simon Kun Pouch.
“The resolutions were adopted during a meeting of the SPLM leadership chaired by the party chairman and president of the Republic, Salva Kiir Mayardit. The meeting was attended by Second Deputy Chairperson Mary Apai and Third Deputy Chairman Simon Kun Pouch,” the statement said.
During the meeting, the ruling party resolved to strengthen its internal structures and intensify political mobilisation across the country in preparation for the anticipated elections.
SPLM leaders said the publication of the electoral calendar provides political parties and institutions with a clear framework to organise their activities and prepare for the electoral process.
The leadership stressed that unity, organisational discipline, and active participation by party structures at the national, state, and grassroots levels will be essential to ensuring the party is fully prepared for the polls. It also agreed to reinforce community outreach efforts and enhance communication of the party’s policies and political agenda throughout the country.
The party’s declaration comes as South Sudan enters a crucial phase in implementing key provisions of the agreement aimed at completing the country’s democratic transition.
The release of the electoral calendar is expected to guide preparations by political parties, electoral institutions, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders ahead of the long-awaited general elections.
Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has yet to conduct its first general elections. The polls have been postponed several times because of political, security, and logistical challenges, as well as delays in implementing critical provisions of the peace agreement.
The transitional government has repeatedly extended the transition period to allow for the completion of essential tasks, including constitutional reforms, voter registration, security sector arrangements, and the establishment of institutions necessary to conduct credible, free, and fair elections.
With the electoral calendar now in place, political parties are expected to accelerate their preparations, mobilise supporters, and engage in activities leading to what many hope will mark South Sudan’s first peaceful democratic transfer of political mandate through the ballot box.