By Ijoo Bosco
Eastern Equatoria State Governor Louis Lobong Lojore has called on the newly launched State High Election Committee to immediately roll out civic and voter education campaigns across grassroots communities to ensure citizens are fully prepared for the 2026 general elections.
Speaking during the launch of the State High Election Committee office in Torit, Governor Lobong stressed that time was of the essence, warning that any delay in reaching remote communities could hamper voter education efforts as the rainy season makes many parts of the state difficult to access.
“The committee should move quickly to educate the public about the electoral process before heavy rains cut off access to some areas,” the governor said.
Lobong assured the committee of his government’s full cooperation, saying all stakeholders were committed to ensuring that clear, accurate, and impartial election information reaches every eligible voter across the state.
The governor also appealed to all political parties to conduct peaceful campaigns in accordance with the electoral laws and guidelines issued by the election management body.
He urged political leaders to use the launch of the committee and the civic education campaign as an opportunity to reject division and instead present their policies and programs democratically and respectfully.
“We must promote peaceful competition where political parties win support through ideas, not conflict,” he said.
The launch ceremony was attended by representatives of several political parties, who publicly reaffirmed their commitment to participating in South Sudan’s 2026 general elections.
Among those present were Angelo Geri of the South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA), Peter Gumbo of the African National Congress (ANC), Oringa Bosco of SPLM-IO, and Margaret Itto, Deputy Chairperson of SPLM-IG in Eastern Equatoria.
The party representatives pledged to work within the legal framework governing the elections and expressed readiness to compete peacefully in the upcoming polls, underscoring a shared commitment to democratic participation.