By Louis Loku
Caretaker Governor Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa has called on armed groups still in the bush to return home, embrace peace, and support efforts to create a secure environment ahead of South Sudan’s planned December 22, 2026, elections.
Speaking during a public rally at Yambio Airstrip on Monday, Daniel urged the armed groups to support peace initiatives and help ensure that roads across Western Equatoria State are safe for civilians and travellers.
The governor said dialogue and cooperation were essential to restoring stability and allowing South Sudanese citizens to choose their leaders through the ballot box.
He appealed to those still in the bush to abandon violence and participate in rebuilding the country, stressing that citizens should be able to exercise their democratic rights without fear.
Daniel said South Sudan needed to move away from a culture of war towards one of peace, where political differences could be resolved through dialogue and democratic processes rather than violence.
He also called on community leaders and residents to engage with armed groups and encourage them to return peacefully, noting that collective efforts were necessary to restore security and protect civilians.
The caretaker governor further emphasised the importance of securing roads across the state, saying improved security would enable people to travel freely and support normal social and economic activities.
On the upcoming elections, Daniel stressed that eligible citizens should be allowed to vote in a peaceful environment without intimidation or fear.
South Sudan is scheduled to hold national elections on December 22, 2026, according to the announced electoral timetable.
The planned polls are expected to allow citizens to choose their leaders through the ballot box.
Governor Daniel urged all parties to cooperate with peace initiatives and work together to ensure that residents of Western Equatoria State can live peacefully, travel safely, and exercise their democratic rights.
He reiterated his appeal to armed groups to return home and join efforts to build a peaceful future for Western Equatoria State and the country at large.