Chairman of the National Patriotic Movement (NPM) Dr. Issa Mizamil Sebit has urged the government to publish the resolutions from the recent inter-party dialogue. The dialogue, initiated by President Salva Kiir, began on October 24 and aimed to discuss election preparations and challenges facing the country ahead of the December polls. However, the process ended without a formal closure, and its report has yet to be made public. Muzamil, a presidential aspirant, expressed concerns about the lack of transparency.
The inter-party dialogue involved various political parties, including the NPM, which participated from its inception. Despite this, Muzamil stated that his party had not received an official report outlining the deliberations and recommendations. He emphasized the need for the public to be informed about the dialogue's outcome, saying that the contributions of different political parties should reach President Salva Kiir. This lack of transparency has raised questions about the dialogue's effectiveness.
Muzamil suggested that political parties resume discussions or organize an alternative forum, such as a symposium, to address outstanding political issues ahead of the December 22 elections. He stressed the importance of finding solutions to the challenges facing the country. The elections, scheduled for December 22, 2026, are South Sudan's first since independence in 2011. Preparations have faced delays, including the pending commencement of voter registration.
Addressing the election timeline, Muzamil warned against another politically negotiated extension of the transitional period. He insisted that any decision to postpone the vote should be based on technical assessments by the National Electoral Commission (NEC). The commission, responsible for organizing elections, should determine the feasibility of the December polls, rather than political parties or signatories to the peace agreement.
The National Elections Commission had earlier announced that it would start voter registration in the first weeks of November. However, with less than two months to the slated vote, it remains unclear if the NEC would complete the necessary preparations in the remaining period. Despite the delays, Muzamil maintained that holding the election on schedule remains possible.
The NPM chair added that his party is awaiting the electoral commission's announcement on the start of voter registration. He expressed concerns about the potential for another extension of the transitional period, citing the need for technical advice from the NEC. This approach would differ from previous instances where the transitional period was extended without relying on technical assessments.
South Sudan's electoral preparations have been marred by delays, and the country's readiness to hold the elections on schedule is uncertain. The NEC's ability to complete the necessary preparations in time will be crucial in determining the success of the elections. The international community and local stakeholders will be watching closely to ensure that the elections are held in a free, fair, and transparent manner.
Key points
- Dr. Issa Mizamil Sebit calls for public disclosure of inter-party dialogue resolutions
- The inter-party dialogue's report has yet to be made public
- Muzamil warns against another politically negotiated extension of the transitional period
