South Sudan Postpones December Elections by Two Years Amid Preparation Challenges

The South Sudanese government has delayed the elections initially set for December by two years. This postponement aims to finalise essential processes such as conducting a census, drafting a permanent constitution, and registering political parties. The new election date is now December 22, 2026.

Reasons Behind the Delay

Presidential Adviser on National Security Tut Gatluak stated that the extension allows time to complete critical tasks before the elections. This marks the second delay in elections since South Sudan's independence in 2011. The transitional period began in February 2020.

Cabinet Affairs Minister Martin Elia Lomuro mentioned that recommendations from electoral institutions and the security sector influenced this decision. Last month, Prof. Abednego Akok, chairperson of the National Election Commission, highlighted that voter registration was delayed due to a lack of funds.

Economic Challenges and Security Concerns

South Sudan faces an economic crisis, with civil servants unpaid for nearly a year. The country's oil exports have been disrupted by a damaged pipeline in war-torn Sudan. Additionally, peace talks under the Tumaini initiative in Kenya have stalled, affecting efforts to include non-signatory groups in sustaining peace.

A new security act permitting warrantless detentions became law in August, raising concerns among human rights groups about its potential impact on the election atmosphere. Andrea Mach Mabior, an independent political analyst, warned against holding sham elections. "Going for elections that do not meet international standards will be a waste of money," Mabior told the AP.

Potential for Violence

Edmund Yakani, executive director of the Community Empowerment Progress Organization, expressed concerns about delaying elections further. "If we fail to conduct the elections in December 2024, the chance of the country turning into violence is higher than if we go for the elections," Yakani told the AP in August.

South Sudan has endured civil war and climate change impacts, leading to a dire need for humanitarian aid. According to the 2024 UN Humanitarian Needs Overview for South Sudan, an estimated 9 million people — 73 per cent of the population — will require humanitarian assistance during 2024.

President Salva Kiir and his former rival turned deputy, Riek Machar, signed a peace agreement in 2018. This agreement ended a five-year civil war that claimed over 400,000 lives. The ongoing delays and extensions raise concerns about stability and governance in South Sudan.

The government’s decision to postpone elections reflects its struggle with economic hardships and security issues. The international community watches closely as South Sudan navigates these challenges while striving for lasting peace and stability.