The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has warned that South Sudan's planned general elections could face significant challenges. According to its latest report, unresolved political differences, persistent insecurity, and delays in implementing the peace agreement could undermine the electoral process. The Commission emphasized that these challenges could weaken public confidence in the country's transition and affect public participation in the elections.
RJMEC's report highlighted the unclear status of political dialogue and called for a more inclusive process involving all signatories to the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and groups that have not signed the agreement. The Commission noted that continuing armed confrontations, incomplete Transitional Security Arrangements, inter-communal violence, and restrictions affecting civic and political space are major concerns.
The Commission warned that these conditions could affect various aspects of the electoral process, including voter registration, campaigning, the safety of candidates, voter access, and public acceptance of results. RJMEC urged the parties to resolve their political differences through inclusive dialogue, respect the Permanent Ceasefire, and complete priority security tasks, including preparations for election security management.
RJMEC also called for predictable support to electoral institutions as the country prepares for the scheduled general elections. The Commission expressed concern over delays in constitutional reforms and transitional justice, noting that momentum had slowed following the government's decision to delink the permanent constitution-making process from the conduct of elections.
Despite the challenges, RJMEC identified opportunities to build consensus among peace stakeholders, including ongoing political dialogue, preparations for elections, and increased regional engagement. However, the Commission cautioned that sustained commitment from all parties was required to address unresolved political differences, continued security incidents, and delays in implementing key provisions of the peace agreement.
The Commission stressed that the primary responsibility for implementing the agreement rested with the South Sudanese parties and the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU). A peaceful conclusion to the transitional period would depend on sustained political will and adherence to commitments under the R-ARCSS.
As the country approaches the scheduled elections, RJMEC urged political leaders to put national interests above partisan considerations, recommit to dialogue, and open civic and political space. Lasting peace, stability, and democratic governance would depend on renewed adherence to the letter and spirit of the peace agreement, requiring political will and recommitment to the ideals that have guided the country over the past eight years.
Key points
- RJMEC warns of challenges to South Sudan's general elections from unresolved political differences and insecurity.
- The Commission calls for inclusive dialogue, respect for the Permanent Ceasefire, and completion of priority security tasks.
- RJMEC stresses the need for sustained commitment from all parties to implement the peace agreement and ensure a peaceful conclusion to the transitional period.
