By Sabri Dibaco
South Sudan, through the National Election Commission (NEC), has officially launched a nationwide civic and voter education campaign.
During the event, NEC reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a neutral and non-partisan electoral process while the government called on all eligible citizens to register and participate in the country’s upcoming general elections.
The launch, attended by senior government officials, political parties, civil society organisations, development partners, women, and youth representatives, marks a significant step in preparing the country for its anticipated elections.
Speaking during the launch, the Chairperson of the National Elections Commission, Professor Abednego Akok Kacuol, assured South Sudanese that the electoral body would remain impartial throughout the election process.
“The National Elections Commission will remain neutral and non-partisan throughout the electoral process. Our responsibility is to ensure that every eligible citizen has an equal opportunity to exercise their democratic right in a free, fair, and credible election,” Akok Kacuol said.
The NEC Chairperson urged all eligible South Sudanese to register once voter registration begins, describing registration as the foundation of democratic participation.
“I encourage every eligible South Sudanese to register as voters. Civic and voter education is about ensuring that citizens understand their rights, responsibilities, and the importance of participating peacefully in the electoral process,” Akok Kacuol said.
The Commission also appealed to political parties, civil society organisations, religious leaders, and the media to support voter education efforts by promoting accurate information and encouraging peaceful participation.
Launching the campaign, Vice President James Wani Igga called on citizens across the country to embrace the electoral process by registering and casting their votes when elections are held.
“I call upon all eligible South Sudanese to register and participate in the upcoming elections. Elections provide every citizen with the opportunity to choose leaders through peaceful and democratic means,” Wani Igga said.
The vice president made a special appeal to women and young people to actively engage in the electoral process, saying their participation is essential to strengthening democracy and building a more inclusive nation.
“Women and the youth should come out in large numbers to register and vote. They are the backbone of our nation, and their participation is vital for the future of South Sudan,” he said.
Wani Igga also urged political leaders and their supporters to uphold peace and respect throughout the electoral period.
“Let us conduct ourselves peacefully before, during, and after the elections. Democracy thrives where there is peace, tolerance, and respect for one another,” he added.
The nationwide Civic and Voter Education campaign aims to increase public awareness of electoral laws, voter registration procedures, citizens’ rights and responsibilities, and the importance of peaceful participation.
The campaign will be implemented through community outreach, media programs, and public awareness activities across the country as South Sudan prepares for its forthcoming general elections.