Presidential Decision Extends Transitional Period and Postpones Elections to 2026
The Presidency, led by President Salva Kiir Mayardit, has announced a significant decision to extend the country’s transitional period by two years, pushing back the elections originally set for December 2024 to December 22nd, 2026.
In a press briefing, Presidential Adviser on National Security, Hon. Tut Gatluak, highlighted that the extension aims to facilitate the completion of essential tasks outlined in the R-ARCSS, including the permanent constitution process, census, and political party registration.
Minister of Cabinet Affairs, Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro, emphasized that the postponement aligns with recommendations from electoral bodies and the security sector. He stressed the importance of time to address critical election-related activities for a successful outcome.
Dr. Lomuro assured citizens that the government will maintain functionality throughout the extended period. He reiterated that governmental operations will continue without interruption as efforts towards electoral preparedness intensify.
Furthermore, the Presidency underscored its commitment to securing funding during the remaining months of the transitional period to enhance the implementation of the peace agreement. This initiative, Dr. Lomuro emphasized, is pivotal for sustaining long-term peace and stability in the nation.
Reflecting on this decision, Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of CEPO, expressed concerns regarding the extension and emphasized the need for trust between leadership figures to steer the country towards stability successfully. He called for inclusive political strategies to ensure credible and peaceful elections, stressing the importance of securing adequate financing locally.
Yakani warned against undermining the Peace Talks through the current environment of limited trust, urging leaders to prioritize unity and transparency for a fruitful transition.
The newly extended transitional period presents both challenges and opportunities for South Sudan as it navigates the path towards political stability and democratic progress.
