The UK emphasizes the urgency for South Sudan to establish a credible election preparation plan for 2026 amidst ongoing humanitarian crises and political instability. Ambassador Kariuki highlighted concerns over delayed plans and operational support for electoral institutions, urging necessary funding commitments from the Transitional Government to ensure peaceful and inclusive elections.
In a recent statement, UK Ambassador James Kariuki expressed deep concern over the violent attacks on civilians in Wad Madani, Sudan, from January 11-15, and the ensuing unrest in South Sudan on January 16-17. He highlighted the dire humanitarian conditions in South Sudan, where over one million displaced people have fled from Sudan amidst the ongoing conflict.
The UK acknowledges the pressing humanitarian situation and appreciates South Sudan’s response to the influx of refugees from Sudan. Ambassador Kariuki commended the role of UNMISS in facilitating aid efforts and confirmed the UK’s commitment to increasing humanitarian support for South Sudan and its neighbors as challenges loom in 2025.
The political climate in South Sudan remains unstable, with growing concerns over restricted political freedoms and delays in unifying security forces. The ambassador underlined the need for progress in this area to establish a foundation for sustainable peace and upcoming elections, emphasizing that the Transitional Government has yet to produce a comprehensive work plan for the 2026 elections.
There are urgent calls for the Transitional Government to bolster electoral preparations by ensuring necessary funding and paying public servant salaries, including those in security roles. The ambassador commended UNMISS for supporting the capacity-building of South Sudan’s electoral institutions but insisted that the government must equally commit resources.
In conclusion, the UK urges the Transitional Government of South Sudan to publish a credible electoral preparation plan and undertake essential measures for conducting peaceful, inclusive, and credible elections by the 2026 deadline.
This statement comes within the context of ongoing instability in South Sudan and the humanitarian crisis sparked by conflict in neighboring Sudan. The UK’s advocacy for credible electoral processes is critical amid concerns of political repression and inadequate preparations for the 2026 elections. Effective governance and election planning are seen as vital to long-term peace and stability in South Sudan, requiring collaborative efforts from the government and international partners.
The UK stresses the importance of credible election preparations in South Sudan as a pathway to peace and stability. With a focus on humanitarian support due to the influx of refugees from Sudan, it is crucial for the Transitional Government to take prompt action in establishing a work plan and securing the necessary funding for upcoming elections in 2026. Without these steps, the progress towards inclusive and credible elections may stagnate.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
