Security concerns and restrictions on political movement are hindering political parties' preparations for South Sudan's planned December 22, 2026 elections. Paulino Lokudu, leader of the United South Sudan Party (SSUP), stated that some parties have identified candidates but are reluctant to announce them due to safety fears. Lokudu emphasized that announcing a candidate, particularly for the presidency, requires adequate protection for the individual and their supporters.
Lokudu questioned how candidates could safely move around the country and engage voters without proper protection, noting that political parties lack military wings to provide security for their nominees. He stressed that candidate protection needs to be addressed as part of the wider arrangements for conducting elections. Additionally, Lokudu raised concerns about restrictions requiring political leaders to seek approval before traveling outside Juba, which he believes prevents parties from reaching their supporters in the constituencies.
Human rights activist Ador Akoy expressed concerns that restrictions on political movement are affecting citizens' constitutional rights and their ability to participate meaningfully in the electoral process. Akoy stated that freedom of movement is essential for political candidates to reach voters and present their programs. He argued that electoral institutions should work with security agencies to ensure candidates are protected while allowing political activities to take place without unnecessary interference.
Akoy also highlighted the lack of comprehensive voter and civic education, stating that citizens need sufficient information about the electoral process and the candidates seeking public office. He called on the caretaker government to reconsider the restrictions and create an environment that allows political parties to engage communities across the country. Furthermore, Akoy emphasized that citizens risk being denied the opportunity to make informed choices if candidates are unable to campaign and explain their policies.
Patrick Godi, a youth representative at the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC), cited security challenges and the incomplete implementation of transitional security arrangements as significant concerns ahead of the elections. Godi noted that the 2018 Revitalised Agreement envisaged the unification of forces from different parties into a national army capable of providing security across the country. However, he stated that the security situation has become fragmented, with continuing armed confrontations and violations of the permanent ceasefire.
Godi reported that the RJMEC has documented serious violations of the permanent ceasefire and a collapse of the transitional security arrangements. He expressed concerns that these developments are raising reservations among citizens about the conditions under which elections will be conducted. Godi also questioned whether the remaining time is sufficient to complete important electoral activities, including voter registration and candidate nominations.
Lokudu called on the National Elections Commission to strengthen communication with registered political parties and provide equal access and coverage to all parties through government-owned media organizations. He emphasized that citizens should have the freedom to choose their leaders through a peaceful electoral process. The concerns raised by Lokudu, Akoy, and Godi come as South Sudan prepares for its scheduled December 22, 2026 elections, with questions remaining over security, political participation, and electoral preparations.
Key points
- Security concerns and restrictions on movement are limiting political parties' ability to prepare for South Sudan's December 22, 2026 elections.
- Candidate protection and freedom of movement are essential for a peaceful and fair electoral process.
- The lack of comprehensive voter and civic education poses a risk to citizens' ability to make informed choices in the elections.
