The Chairperson of the National Election Commission (NEC), Gabriel Bol Deng, announced that voter registration is expected to begin in the coming weeks as preparations intensify for South Sudan’s planned December elections. This move is part of the commission's efforts to ensure citizens understand the electoral process and are adequately prepared to participate. NEC chair Bol emphasized the importance of continued civic and voter education.
Bol made the announcement after meeting with the South Sudan Islamic Council on Tuesday in Juba. He called for the involvement of religious leaders in educating and mobilizing communities ahead of the registration exercise. According to Bol, religious leaders have an important role to play in guiding citizens through the country’s democratic transition and promoting peaceful participation in the electoral process.
The NEC chairperson highlighted the significance of collective efforts among electoral institutions, religious leaders, and citizens to prepare the country for peaceful, credible, and democratic elections. He described the election process as a journey that requires the contribution of everyone. Bol also emphasized the historical role of religion in South Sudanese society and its importance in the country's democratic transition.
Sheik Dr. Abdalla Baraj Rual, Leader of the South Sudan Islamic Council, pledged to work closely with the National Election Commission (NEC) to prepare citizens for the upcoming elections. Baraj said the Islamic Council will support efforts to create an environment that enables citizens to participate in the electoral process and choose their leaders peacefully.
Baraj urged South Sudanese politicians to approach the elections in a patriotic manner and ensure that the process ends peacefully. He called for fair elections free from violence and hate speech, urging political actors and citizens to promote peace and tolerance throughout the electoral process. According to Baraj, the Islamic Council will work closely with the Commission to prepare the ground for citizens to choose their leaders.
The National Election Commission's efforts to engage with religious leaders and citizens aim to promote a peaceful and democratic electoral process. By working together, the commission hopes to ensure that citizens are well-prepared to participate in the elections and that the process is free and fair. The commission's preparations are crucial in ensuring the success of the December elections.
The upcoming elections in South Sudan are a significant milestone in the country's democratic transition. The National Election Commission's efforts to engage with citizens and promote a peaceful electoral process are essential in ensuring the credibility and legitimacy of the elections. With the support of religious leaders and citizens, the commission aims to deliver a successful and democratic electoral process.
Key points
- The National Election Commission (NEC) will start voter registration in the coming weeks ahead of South Sudan's planned December elections.
- The NEC is working with religious leaders to educate and mobilize communities ahead of the registration exercise.
- The elections are a significant milestone in South Sudan's democratic transition, and the NEC's efforts aim to ensure a peaceful and democratic process.
