The National Patriotic Movement (NPM) has announced its chairman, Dr. Issa Muzamil Sebit Makelele, as its presidential candidate for South Sudan's December 2026 general elections. This decision was made public by NPM Secretary-General Gatkouth during a press conference in Juba on September 23, 2026. The endorsement comes a day after President Salva Kiir Mayardit dissolved the transitional government, marking the end of the transitional period.
NPM welcomed the conclusion of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) transitional period, which formally ended on September 22. The party's governing council endorsed Makelele to contest for the presidency, positioning him as a candidate against incumbent President Kiir. Makelele, a lawyer by profession, has previously served as president of the South Sudan Bar Association and has been involved in legal proceedings concerning the rule of law and administration of justice in South Sudan.
Chairman Issa Makelele emphasized the need for equal political space for all parties, stating that credible elections require a level playing field for political actors. He also called for adequate funding for the election commission and equal access to public media for all political parties participating in the December polls. Furthermore, NPM urged the authorities to ensure that public institutions and resources are not used to give an advantage to the ruling party during the electoral process.
The NPM is ready to participate in the December 22 elections and will announce its candidates for governorships, national and state parliament seats, and local government positions in the coming weeks. This move adds another presidential contender to the emerging 2026 election race as political parties begin positioning themselves following the end of the transitional period.
Makelele's endorsement by NPM comes at a critical time when political parties are strategizing for the upcoming elections. His background as a lawyer and his experience in advocating for the rule of law and justice in South Sudan may play a significant role in his campaign. The 2026 elections are expected to be a crucial milestone in South Sudan's political history.
The National Patriotic Movement's decision to endorse Makelele reflects the party's commitment to participating in the democratic process in South Sudan. By fielding a candidate for the presidency, NPM aims to contribute to the country's transition towards a more stable and democratic governance structure. The party's stance on equal political space and fair access to media and resources underscores its commitment to a level playing field.
As the election date approaches, political parties in South Sudan are expected to intensify their campaigns. The endorsement of Makelele by NPM adds to the growing list of contenders vying for the presidency. The elections will be a critical test of South Sudan's democratic institutions and its progress towards stability and peace.
Key points
- National Patriotic Movement endorses Issa Muzamil Makelele as presidential candidate for 2026 elections.
- Makelele calls for equal political space and fair access to media and resources.
- NPM commits to participating in the December 2026 elections.
