South Sudan’s planned December 2026 elections represent an important stage in the country’s political transition. With the polls approaching, ensuring that the process is peaceful, inclusive, and credible should not be left to political parties and electoral institutions alone. Civil society organisations, the African Union (AU), and ordinary citizens all have important roles to play.
The African Union Peace and Security Council has called for credible elections in December 2026 and emphasised the need for inclusive dialogue and implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement. This calls for sustained engagement by regional and national stakeholders rather than waiting until election day.
Civil society organisations should strengthen civic education and encourage citizens to understand their rights and responsibilities. They can help communities understand electoral procedures, discourage hate speech and political violence, and create platforms where citizens can raise concerns peacefully. Recent UN-supported discussions in South Sudan have similarly emphasised stronger civic participation and government accountability as the country prepares for the elections.
The AU also has an important responsibility to remain engaged with South Sudanese stakeholders. Its role should include supporting dialogue, encouraging implementation of agreed peace commitments, and working with other regional and international partners to help create conditions for a peaceful electoral process. The AU has previously reaffirmed its commitment to supporting South Sudan toward transparent and credible elections.
Citizens, meanwhile, should not regard elections merely as a contest between political leaders. They are an opportunity to participate in shaping the country’s future through lawful and peaceful means. Citizens should seek reliable information, reject violence and intimidation, respect political differences, and use established channels to report electoral concerns.
Political actors also have a responsibility to create an environment in which citizens can participate freely. The UN has warned that fragile political trust, security challenges, and concerns about inclusivity continue to affect preparations for the December elections. These concerns require serious attention from all stakeholders.
A credible election is built long before voters reach polling stations. It depends on adequate preparation, voter registration, civic awareness, security, respect for political rights, and credible mechanisms for addressing disputes. UNMISS has emphasised that electoral justice is essential for protecting citizens’ political rights and the integrity of the electoral process.
South Sudan therefore needs a collective effort. Civil society must educate and monitor; the AU must continue supporting dialogue and peace commitments, and citizens must participate responsibly and peacefully.
The December elections should be approached as a national process in which every stakeholder has a role. Sustained engagement today can help reduce tensions, strengthen public confidence, and support a peaceful political transition.
God protect South Sudan.
Be the spectator!