By Yiep Joseph
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has pressed the National Elections Commission (NEC) to close outstanding gaps in its preparations as the country moves toward the December 22 general elections.
The President made the call on Friday after NEC Chairperson Prof. Abednego Akok Kachuol briefed him on the commission’s progress, including assessment work carried out across the country’s ten states and three administrative areas.
Rather than simply reviewing the progress, Kiir urged the commission to maintain the pace of its preparations and ensure that remaining tasks are completed before polling day.
A statement from the Presidential Press Unit said the President stressed that the elections should be conducted in a manner that is credible, peaceful, transparent, and fair.
“His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit has urged the National Elections Commission to step up preparations for the country’s December 22 general elections, stressing the need for a credible, free, and fair electoral process,” the statement partly read.
Kiir also placed emphasis on voter participation, directing the NEC to ensure that eligible citizens have the necessary opportunity and information to take part in the electoral process.
The president called for closer cooperation between the elections body, government institutions, and other stakeholders, saying preparations must follow the country’s electoral laws and established procedures.
He further urged the NEC to strengthen public confidence by ensuring that voters receive reliable information and that the electoral process remains inclusive.
The meeting comes as the NEC continues preparations for the December polls, with civic and voter education already being rolled out in parts of the country. The commission has also been conducting field assessments as it works toward the scheduled vote.
Kiir reaffirmed government support for the NEC and encouraged its leadership to remain focused on its constitutional mandate.
He also called on political parties, public institutions, and citizens to help maintain a peaceful environment ahead of the elections.
The December 22 vote is expected to be South Sudan’s first national election since independence in 2011, after previous polls were postponed. The NEC formally set the date in June under the National Elections Act.
With the polling date approaching, the commission is now under pressure to translate its ongoing preparatory work into the practical arrangements needed for voters to participate across the country.