The National Election Commission (NEC) of South Sudan has approved the voter registration form, a crucial step towards the country's general elections scheduled for December 22, 2026. NEC Chairperson Gabriel Bol Deng announced the approval during a press briefing in Juba on September 23, 2026. This move fulfills a key legal and administrative requirement, confirming the commission's readiness to conduct voter registration. The approval allows the commission to prepare for the upcoming elections, which are expected to be a major test for South Sudan's political transition.
The NEC also approved new implementing regulations governing key aspects of the electoral process. These approvals follow recent amendments to the National Elections Act, 2012, passed by Parliament and assented to by President Salva Kiir Mayardit. The commission is now preparing for the voter registration exercise expected to precede the December polls. Voter registration will be conducted manually, in person, and using paper forms, with information collected during registration later entered into the commission's computer systems.
The original registration books will be preserved as official records for electoral verification. As of September 22, 2026, the NEC said voter registration had not yet officially started, warning against unofficial reports claiming that registration had already begun in some areas. The commission will announce registration dates and locations through official NEC communication channels. State High Elections Committees and Administrative Area representatives have received training on registration procedures, electoral laws, and responsibilities during the registration exercise.
The NEC has undergone a leadership transition ahead of the scheduled elections, with Bol Deng moving from secretary general to chairperson. Ahon Malou Lueth was appointed acting secretary general to maintain administrative and operational continuity. Bol Deng assured that the leadership change would not disrupt preparations for the elections, stating that preparations are advancing, institutions are functioning, and the elections remain firmly on course.
The commission has promised regular media briefings to keep citizens informed about electoral preparations. It has also urged political parties and civil society groups to support the electoral process, encouraging faith-based organisations, development partners, and citizens to participate constructively. The December election is expected to be a significant milestone in South Sudan's political transition, marking the country's first general election since gaining independence in 2011.
Previous elections in South Sudan have been repeatedly postponed during successive transitional arrangements and political negotiations. The current transitional period has also faced delays in implementing several provisions of the peace agreement. With December 22 approaching, voter registration remains a crucial stage in preparations for polling. The NEC must address logistics, voter education, staffing, and other operational requirements before election day.
The NEC's efforts to engage citizens and stakeholders in the electoral process are ongoing. By approving the voter registration form and implementing regulations, the commission has demonstrated its commitment to conducting free and fair elections. As the country prepares for this significant event, citizens and international observers will be watching closely to ensure that the electoral process is transparent, credible, and inclusive.
Key points
- The National Election Commission of South Sudan has approved the voter registration form ahead of the December 22 general elections.
- Voter registration will be conducted manually, in person, and using paper forms.
- The NEC has urged political parties, civil society groups, and citizens to support the electoral process.
