A faction of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO) led by Caretaker Minister of Peacebuilding Stephen Par Kuol is pushing for guarantees on political freedoms and civic space ahead of South Sudan's planned December elections. The SPLM-IO Secretary-General, Agok Makur Kur, met with officials of the ruling Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) to discuss election preparations and create a level playing field for free and fair elections.
The discussions focused on electoral arrangements, political freedoms, and the need for a fair environment for parties to compete. According to a statement issued by the opposition movement on October 27, the visit aimed to open channels of communication and dialogue with various political forces in the country. The objective is to align perspectives and address challenges and concerns related to the upcoming elections.
The SPLM-IO proposed a "Pact and Code of Honour" for political parties to sign before the elections. The document would set out commitments to electoral integrity and acceptance of the results. Dr. Akol Paul, secretary-general of the ruling SPLM, welcomed the initiative and expressed support for the proposals, pledging cooperation to create a fair political environment.
The talks come as South Sudan prepares for general elections scheduled for December 22, 2026, amid concerns over political participation, electoral readiness, and campaign conditions. The ruling SPLM has started conducting party primaries to select candidates for the upcoming elections. However, preparations by the National Elections Commission (NEC) remain a key concern, with voter registration yet to begin as of October 27.
The NEC estimates that it requires $250 million to successfully run the elections but has received only $27 million so far. Despite these challenges, President Salva Kiir has continued to insist that the elections will take place as scheduled in December. The government, the main funder of the electoral commission, has not provided a detailed account of how the remaining funding gap will be addressed.
The SPLM-IO's initiative aims to ensure a level playing field for all parties and promote free and fair elections. The proposed pact would set out commitments to electoral integrity and acceptance of the results. However, it is unclear what concrete guarantees were discussed or when the proposed pact would be signed.
The elections in South Sudan are crucial for the country's transition and stability. The international community has been closely watching the preparations, and concerns have been raised about the country's readiness to hold free and fair elections. The outcome of the elections will have significant implications for South Sudan's future.
Key points
- SPLM-IO seeks guarantees on political freedoms and civic space ahead of December elections.
- The opposition movement proposed a "Pact and Code of Honour" for political parties to sign before the elections.
- The National Elections Commission faces significant funding challenges, with a $223 million shortfall.
