JUBA – The South Sudan National Elections Commission (NEC) has urged civil society organisations to play a pivotal role in ensuring transparency and maintaining peace throughout the electoral process.
Speaking at the launch of the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) Alliance on Electoral Processes, under the theme “Towards Free, Fair, Credible, and Peaceful Elections in South Sudan,” NEC representative Manuel Makum affirmed the commission’s readiness to conduct credible elections in accordance with legal frameworks.
“In South Sudan, this will be the first election, and the NEC is prepared to ensure a process that reflects the aspirations of the people,” Makum said.
He urged civil society organisations to play a pivotal role in ensuring transparency and maintaining peace throughout the electoral process.
Meanwhile, the representative of the South Sudan Peace and Reconciliation Commission, Taban Charles, highlighted the commission’s efforts in preparing for the polls in coordination with regional bodies.
“When the elections were postponed, we organised training for civil society groups to help them manage potential conflicts during the pre- and post-election period,” Charles explained. He added that “civic education is essential.”
He stated that many South Sudanese have never voted before, and this alliance has a critical role in educating the public on why elections matter.
Alimure Ali Amwuda, representing the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES), congratulated the alliance on its milestone and reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting democratic processes.
“As South Sudan prepares for the 2026 elections, this alliance provides a platform for youth, women, faith-based, and civil society groups to ensure peaceful and credible electoral processes,” he said. “FES stands ready to continue supporting capacity-building and calls on other international partners to do the same.”
The Chairperson of the Civil Society Alliance, Guarace John, called on citizens and political leaders to act with honesty and unity to ensure credible elections.
“As citizens, we have a duty to ensure peaceful and credible elections. The majority of South Sudanese, according to a CEPO survey, want elections to go ahead as planned in December 2026. Our people are tired of delays,” John said.
He added, “Together, we can ensure that South Sudan’s first post-independence elections mark a new chapter of peace, unity, and hope.”
