By Louis Loku
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting South Sudan’s National Elections Commission through continued engagement and technical assistance as the country prepares for elections.
The IGAD Special Envoy to South Sudan, Ambassador Moussa Djama Ali, accompanied by the IGAD Head of Mission to South Sudan, Dr. Victoria Anib Majur, made the commitment during a courtesy visit to the National Elections Commission (NEC) headquarters in Juba.
The meeting focused on electoral preparations and cooperation aimed at promoting peaceful, credible and democratic elections in South Sudan.
Speaking during the engagement, Ambassador Moussa Djama Ali highlighted the urgency of voter registration and the need for a clear electoral calendar to guide the electoral process.
The IGAD delegation also emphasized continued cooperation with the National Elections Commission to strengthen electoral institutions and support South Sudan’s transition towards democratic governance.
Meanwhile, NEC Chairperson Gabriel Bol Deng briefed the delegation on preparations for voter registration, the recruitment and training of electoral personnel, and efforts to harmonize the electoral legal framework.
He also stressed the importance of civic and voter education, women’s participation, reliable electoral data, and freedom of movement for citizens and electoral personnel during the electoral process.
The meeting was attended by NEC Secretary-General Ahon Malou.
The engagement underscored the shared commitment of IGAD and the National Elections Commission to strengthening electoral preparedness and ensuring that South Sudanese citizens can exercise their democratic rights peacefully.