By Yiep Joseph
The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) has pledged to protect politicians, civilians, and election materials during the planned December elections.
SSPDF spokesperson Major General Lul Ruai Koang said the army would work with police and other security agencies to support election security.
Speaking to journalists on Thursday, Koang said the military remained committed to protecting the country’s territorial integrity and supporting peaceful elections.
“SSPDF mandate in the electioneering process, as mandated, the national army will continue to protect the territorial integrity of our beloved country, help organised forces in this case I am talking about police, and the rest in protecting politicians during election campaigns and where we are needed will secure ballots if requested by concerned electoral bodies,” Lul Ruai said.
He said cooperation among security agencies would help create a peaceful environment for political activities and public participation.
South Sudan is scheduled to hold general elections on Dec. 22, 2026, marking a major milestone in its post-independence political transition.
The polls are expected to be the country’s first national elections since independence from Sudan in July 2011.
Previous elections have been postponed several times because of delays in implementing key provisions of the 2018 peace agreement.
The agreement established a transitional government and outlined reforms intended to prepare the country for elections.
These reforms include security-sector transformation, constitutional development, and other institutional arrangements.
In December 2025, the National Elections Commission announced plans to use 102 geographical constituencies based on those used in the 2010 elections.
However, concerns remain over insecurity, funding shortages, and the readiness of electoral institutions.
In July, the Political Parties Council and the National Constitutional Review Commission warned that funding delays and insecurity could affect election preparations.
Koang said the army would assist police in protecting politicians during campaigns and securing ballots when requested by relevant electoral authorities.
He also maintained that the overall security situation remained under control despite reported confrontations in some parts of the country.
Security arrangements will be crucial in protecting candidates, voters, election officials, and electoral materials throughout the process.
The SSPDF’s pledge comes as authorities face growing pressure to ensure the elections proceed peacefully and safely.
As the December deadline approaches, cooperation among security agencies and electoral institutions will remain essential to preparations.
The planned polls represent a significant step in South Sudan’s political transition, with security and civilian protection central to their success.