South Sudan's National Elections Commission (NEC) has taken a significant step towards preparing for the country's planned general elections by unveiling a voter registration book. The registration book, which was approved by the commission's board on Monday, will be used by registration officials to record and maintain voters' details during the registration process. This development is a crucial part of the electoral preparations, and the commission plans to announce the date for voter registration once all preparations are complete.
The voter registration book contains essential information, including the NEC logo, the names of South Sudan's 10 states and three administrative areas, as well as serial numbers for registration records. The book also includes information such as the geographical area where a voter will cast their ballot and the registration centre. NEC chairperson Gabriel Bol Deng Majok explained that the book would be used to record voters' details, ensuring a smooth registration process.
According to NEC chairperson Gabriel Bol Deng Majok, the commission has received $25m from the government to support the electoral process. He expressed optimism that additional funds would be released in the coming days to support voter registration and other preparations. The Ministry of Finance has assured the commission of further funding, which will enable the commission to proceed with the registration process.
The NEC plans to begin printing voter registration books this week and distribute them to the 10 states and three administrative areas once sufficient copies are available. Bol stated that the commission would not wait for all the books to be printed before beginning distribution. The commission's priority is to approve the registration form, which has now been done, and printing will commence immediately.
The commission has already identified and assessed voter registration centres across the country. Bol stated that the centres would receive registration books as they became available, after which the commission would set a date for the start of voter registration. This development indicates that the commission is making progress in its preparations for the general elections.
South Sudan's National Elections Commission has set 22 December 2026 as the date for the general elections. According to the law, the incumbent president will remain in office and exercise executive powers during the election period, while vice-presidents and other members of the executive leave office. This provision has significant implications for the country's leadership during the electoral period.
The unveiling of the voter registration book marks a significant milestone in South Sudan's electoral preparations. With the registration process expected to commence soon, citizens will be able to register to vote in the upcoming general elections. The commission's efforts to ensure a smooth registration process will be crucial in determining the success of the elections.
Key points
- The National Elections Commission has set 22 December 2026 as the date for the general elections in South Sudan.
- The commission has received $25m from the government to support the electoral process.
- The voter registration book contains essential information, including the NEC logo, state and administrative area names, and serial numbers for registration records.
