South Africa Raises Concerns Over South Sudan Election Preparations

South Africa's Permanent Representative to the UN, Mxolisi Sizo Nkosi, has expressed concerns about South Sudan's preparedness for elections scheduled for December 22. According to Nkosi, an African Union assessment revealed significant gaps in the preparations, including shortages of resources and technical expertise. This assessment was presented to the UN Security Council, where Nkosi emphasized the need for South Sudan to meet legal, financial, and operational requirements to ensure a successful electoral process.

Nkosi also raised concerns about the worsening humanitarian conditions in South Sudan, citing restricted aid access and increasing pressure from refugees fleeing neighboring Sudan. Despite these challenges, South Africa has offered technical assistance and electoral equipment to support the electoral process. Additionally, South Sudanese electoral officials have been invited to observe South Africa's November 4 local government elections, which could provide valuable insights and expertise.

The South Sudanese government has defended its decision to proceed with the elections, arguing that the country cannot remain indefinitely under transitional arrangements. Deputy Permanent Representative Sabino Edward Nyawella Amaikwey told the UN Security Council that elections are essential to consolidating stability and allowing citizens to choose their leaders. He also criticized what he called disproportionate attention to political actors accused of obstructing implementation of the 2018 peace agreement.

Nyawella urged the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and human rights mechanisms to strengthen consultations with national authorities and reject what he described as unverified allegations and politically charged reporting. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to facilitating UNMISS operations, saying obstruction of the mission "has never been, and is not, a policy" of South Sudan. This commitment is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of UN personnel and the success of the mission.

Denmark's Ambassador to the UN, Christina Markus Lassen, warned that holding elections without political consensus, adequate preparations, and meaningful participation could deepen divisions and trigger renewed violence. She condemned continued fighting and attacks on humanitarian workers, citing at least 39 aid workers killed this year. Lassen also raised concerns about displacement and worsening food insecurity, emphasizing the need for inclusive dialogue and a commitment to the Revitalized Peace Agreement.

Russia's Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Anna M. Evstigneeva, cautioned against premature judgments about South Sudan's readiness for the December elections. She urged Security Council members to respect Juba's authority over the electoral process and backed African Union mediation efforts and UNMISS. Evstigneeva also stressed the importance of a strong central government and unified national armed forces, calling for easing or lifting the arms embargo to strengthen South Sudan's security institutions.

The international community is closely watching the developments in South Sudan, with various countries and organizations emphasizing the need for a peaceful and inclusive electoral process. As the December 22 election date approaches, it remains to be seen whether South Sudan will be able to address the concerns raised by South Africa, Denmark, and other countries. The outcome of the elections will have significant implications for the country's stability and future.

Key points

• South Africa's UN representative raises concerns about South Sudan's election preparations, citing resource and technical expertise shortages.
• Denmark warns that holding elections without political consensus and adequate preparations could deepen divisions and trigger renewed violence.
• Russia cautions against premature judgments about South Sudan's readiness for the December elections, urging respect for Juba's authority over the electoral process.