NEC Announces Preparation for December 2024 Elections in South Sudan
In a press statement dated April 9th 2024, the National Elections Commission (NEC) of South Sudan has declared its commitment to conducting General Elections before the end of the Transitional period. The NEC presented an Elections budget of SSP. 253 billion to the government, advocating for necessary financial support to ensure a smooth electoral process.
“The journey to democracy has started today and it is the responsibility of all South Sudanese to participate in this election because the power belongs to them,” emphasized the NEC spokesperson, highlighting the importance of citizen engagement in the upcoming elections.
The Council of Ministers approved the budget on 9th February, receiving a positive response from civil society organizations like the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO).
CEPO’s Executive Director, Mr. Edmund Yakani, commended the transparency and accountability demonstrated by the NEC leadership in handling the elections funding.
“We urge the parliament to expedite the release of funds to relevant institutions involved in the electoral processes to ensure a conducive environment for the December 2024 elections,” stated Mr. Yakani, emphasizing the need for timely and equitable distribution of funds to key organizations.
The NEC is set to visit states next week to form States High Elections Committees and has initiated Civic and Voter education activities to prepare citizens for the electoral process. The support of the international community is crucial for the success of the forthcoming elections, as noted by the NEC.
Moreover, CEPO will be releasing its third pre-elections domestic observation report next week, shedding light on the country’s readiness for the December 2024 elections. The report is expected to provide insights into the progress made and challenges faced in the lead-up to the elections.
With preparations underway and calls for inclusive participation echoing across the nation, South Sudan is gearing up for a significant milestone in its democratic journey with the upcoming General Elections in December 2024.