The outgoing United Kingdom Ambassador to South Sudan, David Ashley, has called for urgent political dialogue, greater electoral preparedness, and an open civic space as the country moves toward its scheduled December elections. Ashley emphasized the importance of credible and inclusive elections, stating that the UK wants the elections to take place in December but stresses that the process must be supported by adequate preparations. He highlighted the need for security, civic space, and practical preparations for the elections.
Ambassador Ashley noted that elections present both a political and logistical challenge, requiring preparations for ballot printing, transportation, voting, counting, and the handling of electoral disputes. He called for dialogue among South Sudanese political actors to address whether sufficient time remains for the elections and what should happen if the preparations cannot be completed on schedule. This dialogue should also address outstanding provisions of the peace agreement, including the constitution and the unification of forces.
Ashley further called for greater clarity on the electoral timetable and financing, saying practical preparations remained urgent. He said parties would need adequate time to determine candidates, particularly if state assembly elections are held, while the transportation of ballot papers would also require sufficient preparation time. The ambassador emphasized that the international community has maintained consistent messaging on the need for security, civic space, and practical preparations for the elections.
The ambassador said South Sudan’s political environment should allow political parties and citizens to participate without fear, including through public meetings, rallies, and criticism of government policies. He called for equal access to media during the campaign period, including access to the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC). This would ensure that state resources are not used by one particular political party and that all parties have an equal opportunity to reach voters.
Ashley said the caretaker government should remain neutral and focus on organizing elections and conducting normal government business rather than supporting a particular political party or candidate. He emphasized that state resources should not be used to support any one candidate or party. This neutrality is crucial to ensuring the credibility and fairness of the electoral process.
The call came as the UK ambassador made his last visit to states like Western Equatoria State and Jonglei before handing over to the new ambassador to South Sudan. During his visit, he affirmed that the UK government will stand with the people of South Sudan as they continue to suffer at the hands of people who have no political will. The UK government’s commitment to supporting the people of South Sudan remains strong.
The UK’s stance on the elections in South Sudan is clear: they want to see elections in December, but they must be credible, inclusive, and supported by adequate preparations. The ambassador’s call for urgent political dialogue, greater electoral preparedness, and an open civic space is a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead. The international community will be watching closely to ensure that the elections are conducted in a fair and transparent manner.
Key points
- The UK Ambassador to South Sudan, David Ashley, has called for credible, inclusive, and prepared December elections.
- Ashley emphasized the need for security, civic space, and practical preparations for the elections.
- The caretaker government should remain neutral and focus on organizing elections and conducting normal government business.
