A senior representative of the Former Detainees (FDs) has expressed concerns that movement restrictions in South Sudan could undermine the credibility of the upcoming general elections. Maj. Gen. Bior Leek Kuareng raised the issue during a technical committee meeting of the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) in Juba. He emphasized that citizens and political actors must be free to move across states and counties to participate in election-related activities.
Kuareng questioned the continued relevance of Order No. 36, which restricts movement from one area to another, including travel to other states and abroad. He argued that the order contradicts the Constitution of South Sudan, which provides for the right to movement of citizens. According to Kuareng, the order could prevent political actors from mobilizing supporters and conducting campaigns in different parts of the country as the elections approach.
The representative of the FDs warned that restrictions on movement could prevent citizens from participating fully in the electoral process. He urged the transitional government to reverse the order, saying unrestricted movement was essential to building public confidence in the elections. Kuareng's remarks come as preparations continue for the December 22, 2026, general elections, with questions remaining over whether political parties, candidates, and voters will enjoy the necessary freedoms to participate fully in the polls.
Kuareng also called on the government to investigate the killing of peacekeeping personnel and clarify who was responsible for the reported ambush. He said protecting civilians, their property, and peacekeeping forces was a government responsibility, demanding clear findings from the relevant military authorities. The incident highlights the need for the government to ensure the safety and security of peacekeeping forces.
The representative of the FDs further questioned the clarity of responsibility for monitoring and implementing commitments under the peace agreement. He called for clarification of the parties responsible for the agreement and the appropriate channels through which monitoring reports should be submitted. This issue is crucial in ensuring that the peace agreement is implemented effectively.
As the election date draws closer, Kuareng's appeal highlights the importance of protecting constitutional freedoms, ensuring political participation, and maintaining public confidence in the electoral process. Allowing citizens and political actors to travel without unnecessary restrictions, he argued, would help create an environment in which parties can mobilize, campaign, and prepare for the elections.
The call by Kuareng to lift movement restrictions and ensure the safety of peacekeeping forces is crucial in creating a conducive environment for the upcoming elections. The government must address these concerns to ensure that the elections are credible and that citizens can participate freely.
Key points
- The transitional government of South Sudan must lift movement restrictions to ensure credible elections.
- The government must investigate the killing of peacekeeping personnel and clarify who was responsible.
- The peace agreement must be implemented effectively, with clear responsibilities and channels for monitoring reports.
