President Salva Kiir Mayardit has directed the National Elections Commission (NEC) to intensify preparations for South Sudan’s forthcoming general elections.
The head of state emphasized on the need for a credible, free, fair, peaceful and transparent electoral process.
According to the statement from presidential press unit, the President made the remarks on Friday after receiving a progress report from NEC Chairperson Prof. Abednego Akok Kachuol.
The report focused on the Commission’s ongoing electoral preparations, including assessment missions conducted across the country’s ten states and three administrative areas.
“His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit has urged the National Elections Commission to step up preparations for the country’s December 22 general elections, stressing the need for a credible, free and fair electoral process” the statement partly read.
President Kiir commended the Commission for the progress made so far and urged its leadership to maintain momentum as the country moves closer to the December 22, 2026 polling date.
The President stressed that all outstanding preparations should be addressed in a timely manner to ensure that eligible South Sudanese are given the opportunity to participate in the electoral process.
He further called on the NEC to strengthen coordination with relevant government institutions and stakeholders and to ensure that electoral activities are carried out in accordance with the law and established procedures.
President Kiir also underscored the importance of creating public confidence in the electoral process, urging the Commission to ensure that voters receive accurate information and that the preparations are conducted in an inclusive and transparent manner.
The Head of State reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the NEC in fulfilling its constitutional mandate and encouraged the Commission to remain focused on delivering the elections within the established timeframe.
President Kiir called on all political parties, institutions and citizens to contribute to a peaceful electoral environment and to respect the democratic process as the country prepares for the polls.
The President’s message comes as preparations enter a critical phase, with the NEC expected to continue mobilizing the necessary resources, personnel and logistical arrangements required for the successful conduct of the elections.
He urged the Commission to remain committed to its mandate and to work toward ensuring that the December elections reflect the will of the people of South Sudan.
The NEC has been conducting preparatory activities ahead of the elections, which were officially scheduled for December 22, 2026. The Commission previously indicated that voter registration would form a key part of preparations for the polls.
The December elections are expected to be a significant milestone in South Sudan’s political transition, with the country preparing for its first national elections since independence.
The polls have previously been postponed, with the latest extension setting December 22, 2026, as the election date.