South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has stressed that South Sudan requires a genuine and inclusive political process to ensure credible elections. He made these remarks during a virtual meeting of the African Union High-Level Ad Hoc Committee on South Sudan, known as the C5, and member states of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, IGAD. Ramaphosa's comments come as South Sudan prepares for elections scheduled for December 22, 2026.
According to Ramaphosa, credible elections in South Sudan require adequate security arrangements, a clear legal framework, and sufficient institutional capacity. He also called on South Sudanese leaders to engage in inclusive dialogue to promote lasting peace and stability. This dialogue is crucial for the country's progress, and Ramaphosa emphasized that the peace and stability of South Sudan are also of great importance to the region.
Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of South Sudanese ownership of the peace process, stating that support from the African Union, the C5, and international partners should strengthen this ownership. He said that the support of these partners must reinforce South Sudanese national ownership and respond to clearly identified priorities. This approach will help address the political, security, and institutional challenges facing the country.
The South African president's remarks come at a critical time, as South Sudan continues its preparations for the upcoming elections under the country's transitional political arrangements. The elections are scheduled for December 22, 2026, and it is essential that the necessary conditions are in place to ensure their credibility. Ramaphosa's comments are a call to action for South Sudanese leaders and the international community.
Ramaphosa also emphasized that regional and international support should focus on priorities identified by South Sudanese stakeholders. This approach will help address the specific challenges facing the country and ensure that the support provided is effective. By focusing on these priorities, the international community can help South Sudan make progress toward peace, stability, and credible elections.
The African Union and other international partners have a crucial role to play in supporting South Sudan's peace process. Ramaphosa's comments highlight the need for a coordinated approach to support South Sudan's progress. The country's peace and stability are of great importance to the region, and the international community must work together to help South Sudan achieve its goals.
In conclusion, President Ramaphosa's remarks emphasize the need for an inclusive political process in South Sudan to ensure credible elections. The country's progress toward peace, stability, and credible elections requires a coordinated approach from South Sudanese leaders and the international community. By working together, they can help South Sudan achieve its goals and ensure a brighter future for its citizens.
Key points
- South African President Cyril Ramaphosa stresses the need for an inclusive political process in South Sudan to ensure credible elections.
- Credible elections in South Sudan require adequate security arrangements, a clear legal framework, and sufficient institutional capacity.
- Regional and international support should focus on priorities identified by South Sudanese stakeholders.
