By Lodu William Odiya
Western Equatoria State Caretaker Governor Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa has affirmed his preparation of the state for credible, free, and fair elections scheduled for 22 December 2026.
In a statement that was released by his press unit on Monday, Badagbu urged communities to exercise their right to choose their leaders through the ballot.
Badagbu made the remarks upon his arrival in Yambio, the state capital, following his appointment by President Salva Kiir Mayardit as caretaker governor.
He said South Sudan had relied on appointments to fill leadership positions for years, but the time had come for citizens to elect their leaders through the electoral process.
“The time has come for you to select and elect your leaders,” he said.
He said his priorities included preparing Western Equatoria State for credible, free, and fair elections at every level and ensuring that peace prevails throughout the state.
“This time we are going for elections, and there is no turning back,” he added.
The caretaker governor said the electoral process would give communities an opportunity to choose their leaders, stressing the importance of allowing citizens to determine who represents them.
His remarks come as South Sudan prepares for the anticipated December elections, with peace and preparations for a credible electoral process remaining important issues for authorities and communities.
Last week, the Presidency ruled out further transitional extensions, insisting that South Sudan must proceed towards general elections in December 2026 as preparations advance across the country.
Officials called on relevant institutions to concentrate on implementing four critical pillars outlined by President Salva Kiir Mayardit, including legal framework, administrative and logistical preparations, security arrangements, and dialogue on election-related matters.
South Sudan is expected to hold general elections on December 22, 2026, according to the National Elections Commission.