The National Elections Commission (NEC) of South Sudan has officially launched a nationwide voter registration exercise in preparation for the general elections scheduled for February 11, 2027. NEC Chairperson Gabriel Bol Deng announced the start of the registration process during a ceremony in Juba on Saturday, November 14. He emphasized that voter registration is the foundation of a credible electoral process and urged eligible citizens to visit designated registration centers.
Bol Deng called upon every eligible citizen of South Sudan to register within the announced period, stressing the importance of public participation in achieving democratic governance. He also urged political parties, civil society organizations, religious leaders, traditional authorities, and the media to support public awareness and promote peaceful participation in the registration exercise. Furthermore, he requested that journalists verify electoral information with the commission before publication.
The NEC has established 3,161 registration centers across the country to facilitate the voter registration process. Bol Deng also appealed to security agencies to ensure the safety of voters and registration officials during the exercise. According to the revised electoral calendar, voter registration will run for 15 days, from November 14 to November 28, 2026. This exercise is part of preparations for South Sudan's first general elections since independence in 2011.
Central Equatoria State Caretaker Governor General Augustino Jadalla Kamilo Wani led by example by registering as a voter at Buluk Hai Game Centre in Juba. He was accompanied by Juba City Council Caretaker Mayor Christopher Sarafino Wani and Juba County Commissioner Kalisto Lado Faustino Nyigilo Wani. Governor Jadalla urged eligible citizens, particularly women, young people, persons with disabilities, and residents of remote areas, to participate in the registration exercise.
The voter registration exercise aims to ensure that all eligible citizens are able to exercise their democratic rights. The NEC's efforts are geared towards conducting a free, fair, and transparent electoral process. By registering, citizens will be able to participate in the upcoming general elections, which are expected to be a significant milestone in South Sudan's democratic journey.
The launch of voter registration has been welcomed by various stakeholders, who see it as a crucial step towards consolidating democracy in South Sudan. The NEC's initiative is expected to increase citizen participation in the electoral process and promote accountability. As the registration exercise progresses, citizens are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to register and exercise their right to vote.
As the country prepares for its first general elections since independence, the NEC faces the challenge of ensuring a smooth and credible electoral process. The voter registration exercise is a critical component of this process, and its success will depend on the cooperation of all stakeholders, including citizens, political parties, and security agencies. The NEC's efforts will be closely watched by the international community and civil society organizations.
Key points
- The National Elections Commission has established 3,161 registration centers across South Sudan to facilitate the voter registration process.
- Voter registration will run for 15 days, from November 14 to November 28, 2026.
- The exercise is part of preparations for South Sudan's first general elections since independence in 2011.
