By Lodu William Odiya
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has directed senior leaders of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) to intensify efforts to foster peace, strengthen security, and prepare a conducive environment for the successful conduct of South Sudan’s general elections scheduled for December.
In a statement from the presidential press unit, the directive came on Friday during a meeting with SPLM chairpersons from the states and administrative areas, attended by the party’s Secretary-General, Dr. Akol Paul Koxdit.
“President Kiir instructed the party leadership to work closely with communities across the country to preserve peace, promote unity, and support local authorities in
ensuring that all citizens can participate in the electoral process freely, safely, and peacefully,” the statement read.
Kiir emphasised that peace and stability remain the foundation of credible elections, calling on SPLM leaders to exercise responsible leadership and continue
engaging citizens in maintaining harmony during the country’s democratic transition.
The head of state further directed Governors to explore creative and sustainable ways of increasing local revenue generation, stressing that stronger domestic resource
mobilisation is essential to meeting the operational needs of their respective states and improving service delivery.
He further urged party officials to strengthen grassroots mobilisation, promote peaceful coexistence, and support government efforts to improve governance and security
ahead of the polls.
“President Kiir reaffirmed his commitment to delivering peaceful, credible, and orderly elections, stressing that South Sudan’s democratic progress depends on maintaining
stability and ensuring an environment where every eligible citizen can exercise their constitutional right to vote,” the statement read.
The December 2026 general elections are expected to mark a historic milestone in South Sudan’s democratic journey and the country’s transition to an elected
government.
Preparations continue across government institutions to ensure the polls are conducted in a secure, peaceful, and transparent environment.