South Sudan is gearing up for its pivotal national elections set for December 2026, and the preparations are already underway. On Thursday, the National Police Service presented the Joint Elections Operations Center Assessment Report, marking a crucial step in ensuring a smooth electoral process. This report, unveiled by Maj. Gen. Sadik Ismail Sidigi, Chairperson of the Security Electoral Committee, outlines the evaluations conducted across all ten states, a move aimed at fortifying security and operational readiness for the polls.
Maj. Gen. Sidigi emphasized the importance of operational police stations and effective communication systems. Key aspects of the assessment included repairing communication radios and ensuring that police facilities are ready for deployment. To enhance coordination during the electoral period, joint operation centers will be established in every state, facilitating the flow of daily election reports.
While acknowledging existing challenges, Sidigi conveyed optimism about the strides being made. “We have trained officers across all states and are awaiting funding for specialized training,” he stated. He also noted the need to review the 2023 budget, reflecting on the national currency’s depreciation. This budget revision, in collaboration with the elections commission, aims to bolster resources for the upcoming elections.
The National Elections Commission Chairperson, Prof. Abednego Akok Kacuol, underscored that strong security and reliable infrastructure are essential for credible elections. “Security nurtures public trust and shields the voter registration process until results are announced,” said Akok. His call for extensive training at all levels reflects a proactive stance towards ensuring a transparent and smooth electoral process.
Acting Interior Minister Mangar Buong praised the leadership within the police department for their resilience amidst financial hurdles. He highlighted that both training sessions and logistical preparations have already begun, stating, “We will address the challenges we encounter to support the elections commission fully.”
Furthermore, Murat Isik, Police Chief of Staff for the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), pointed out the growing momentum in election security training. He noted, “Our collaborative training enhances professionalism and strengthens trust between law enforcement and the electoral process.”
As South Sudan navigates through this critical transitional phase, with the peace agreement extensions indicating a commitment to stability, the road to the 2026 elections presents challenges and opportunities. Observers are hopeful that with continued efforts in training, infrastructure readiness, and community engagement, the country can achieve a free, fair, and inclusive electoral process.
In summary, South Sudan’s preparations for the 2026 elections exemplify a commitment to building a foundation for democratic participation. The collaboration between various stakeholders, including the police, government, and international partners, underscores a collective goal: to ensure a successful electoral experience that reflects the will of the South Sudanese people.
#SouthSudan #WorldNews #Politics #Elections #Democracy
