International delegates at a three-day forum in South Sudan have issued a stark warning that time is running out to organise credible elections in the country. The gathering, co-hosted by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and the African Union, brought together key political, security, and civil society leaders to discuss the way forward.
The Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity, formed in 2020, has already postponed elections three times, raising concerns over the country’s democratic future. The delays have drawn criticism from both domestic and international observers, who argue that without a clear commitment to holding elections, South Sudan risks further instability and a crisis of public confidence.
Nicholas Haysom, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for South Sudan and head of UNMISS, made it clear that the responsibility for holding elections ultimately lies with the South Sudanese leadership. He dismissed claims that a lack of international funding was to blame for the repeated postponements.
“I have to make it absolutely clear there is not one penny that is coming for these elections if the South Sudanese don’t indicate the political will to implement this electoral programme,” Haysom stated.
He warned that failure to make progress during the forum would only deepen the disappointment of the South Sudanese people.
“With each sense of disappointment comes a loss of confidence in the political future,” he said. “So, people will look very closely at the steps which the South Sudanese are taking to demonstrate the political will and the desire to exit the transition that is so behind schedule.”
His remarks highlighted a growing sense of urgency among both national and international stakeholders, as repeated election delays have led to widespread frustration. Many South Sudanese citizens have voiced concerns that their country’s leaders are unwilling or unable to facilitate a democratic process.
Joram Biswaro, head of the African Union Mission in South Sudan, echoed these concerns, stressing that the time for “business as usual” had passed. He warned that without significant changes, South Sudan could find itself in prolonged political turmoil.
“While we are aware of these essential requirements, the willingness to practice these values seems to be absent,” Biswaro said. “But it is important to note that we cannot continue doing the same things and expect different results. Hence, a change must take place.”
The forum primarily focused on three key areas: finalising transitional security arrangements, advancing the permanent constitution, and preparing for elections. These areas are seen as crucial to ensuring a credible and peaceful transition to a fully democratic government.
Security remains one of the biggest challenges in South Sudan’s transition. The country has faced persistent violence, both from armed groups and intercommunal conflicts. For elections to take place in a fair and peaceful manner, a stable security environment is essential. However, despite repeated agreements, the full implementation of transitional security measures has been slow.
Electoral preparedness is another major issue. To hold credible elections, the country needs an updated voter register, independent electoral institutions, and a legal framework that guarantees a free and fair process. Many analysts argue that the government has not taken sufficient steps to ensure these conditions are met.
The permanent constitution, which is meant to provide a legal foundation for governance after the transitional period, is also still incomplete. Without a clearly defined constitutional framework, many fear that elections could lead to further disputes and instability.
Despite these concerns, Kuol Manyang Juuk, Chair of the National Transitional Committee, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to holding elections at the end of the current transitional period. While acknowledging the challenges, he insisted that South Sudan’s leadership would not allow further delays.
“We understand the expectations of our people and the concerns of our international partners,” Juuk said. “Elections are a key part of our transition, and we are working towards ensuring that they take place as planned.”
However, his assurances have not fully convinced all stakeholders. Some opposition groups and civil society leaders remain skeptical, pointing to past delays and a lack of concrete progress on key reforms. Many fear that without international pressure, the government may once again postpone the elections, extending the transitional period indefinitely.
The forum concluded with strong calls for immediate action. Delegates urged the South Sudanese government to take tangible steps toward electoral preparations, including finalising the constitution, addressing security concerns, and ensuring that an independent electoral commission is in place. The international community remains watchful, with many warning that without immediate progress, South Sudan risks prolonged political uncertainty.
As South Sudan stands at a crossroads, its leaders face mounting pressure to take decisive action. The world is watching, and the people of South Sudan are waiting for proof that their voices will be heard through the ballot box.
