The South Sudanese government has postponed the upcoming elections, originally set for December, by two years. The decision was announced on Friday by Presidential Adviser on National Security, Tut Gatluak.
Gatluak stated that the delay until December 22, 2026, is necessary to finalize crucial processes, including a national census, drafting a permanent constitution, and registering political parties.
This marks the second postponement of elections since South Sudan gained independence in 2011. The transitional period, which began in February 2020, has been extended again.
The extension follows recommendations from electoral institutions and the security sector. Cabinet Affairs Minister Martin Elia Lomuro confirmed this in his statement.
Recent reports highlight delays in voter registration due to funding shortages. Prof. Abednego Akok, chairperson of the National Election Commission, noted that the registration process should have started in June but remains incomplete.
The country is experiencing an economic crisis, exacerbated by a damaged pipeline affecting oil exports. This has led to unpaid salaries for civil servants.
The Tumaini initiative peace talks in neighboring Kenya have stalled, adding to the country’s instability. Additionally, a new security law allowing warrantless detentions was enacted in August.
Political analysts express concerns over the delay. Andrea Mach Mabior criticized the potential for a waste of resources, while Edmund Yakani warned of increased violence if elections are further delayed.
With 73% of the population projected to need humanitarian aid in 2024, South Sudan faces significant challenges as it navigates these delays.
