SOUTH SUDAN APPEALS FOR UGANDA’S SUPPORT AHEAD OF HISTORIC 2026 ELECTIONS

Billboard with election message in South Sudan Capital Juba.

NILE POST

South Sudanese political leaders have appealed to Uganda to continue supporting peace efforts as the world’s youngest nation prepares for its first-ever general elections scheduled for December 22, 2026.

The appeal comes as the South Sudan National Elections Commission launches a nationwide civic and voter education campaign, marking a major milestone in the country’s transition towards constitutional democracy.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with the Nile Post, Isaac Moro Genesio, Chairperson of the South Sudan National Movement for Change (SSNMC), said preparations for the elections are progressing well and expressed optimism that the country is ready to take a major step towards democratic governance.

He urged political parties, candidates and citizens to embrace dialogue, tolerance and peaceful coexistence before, during and after the elections, stressing that peace remains the foundation for credible and successful polls.

Genesio also called on the Ugandan government to continue playing its role as a regional peace partner, saying Uganda’s experience in democratic processes and peace-building efforts could provide valuable lessons for South Sudan.

“Uganda has a history of democracy that was built on a strong foundation. From then until now, Uganda has continued to go through democratic processes under its Constitution. South Sudan can learn from Uganda’s experience and receive advice on the dangers and challenges that come with democratic processes,” Genesio said.

Across Juba, preparations for the elections are gradually gaining momentum. Although the capital remains relatively calm, political activities are expected to intensify following the launch of voter and civic education campaigns aimed at preparing citizens for the December polls.

However, the elections will take place amid growing economic challenges, including the continued depreciation of the South Sudanese pound and rising living costs. These challenges have raised concerns about the economic environment in which the elections will be conducted.

Charles Mogga Guya, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the South Sudan National Movement for Change, said despite the economic difficulties, the country remains committed to holding peaceful and credible elections.

“For example, if the Ugandan currency was adopted in our market, it could help traders within the region and reduce the challenges caused by the dollarisation of our economy,” Guya said.

He said successful elections would not only strengthen democracy in South Sudan but also promote peace, stability and economic cooperation across the region.

Uganda and South Sudan share a long border across Northern Uganda and maintain strong political, economic and social ties. Uganda also hosts one of the world’s largest South Sudanese refugee populations, with millions of people seeking refuge in the country over the years due to conflict and instability.

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Director of Finance, Hajjat Medina Nahum Ojale, said peace and stability in South Sudan are important for Uganda’s economic and regional interests.

“It is in Uganda’s interest to see that South Sudan is peaceful. Trade will boom, our people will be happy and our nations will grow. It is therefore the role of His Excellency President Yoweri Museveni to ensure that East Africa is united,” Ojale said.

Political observers believe that a peaceful electoral process in South Sudan would significantly contribute to regional security and create conditions for displaced citizens to return and rebuild their lives.

Political analyst Feni Twaib, based in Arua City, said Uganda could provide diplomatic support, technical expertise and mediation where necessary, but cautioned against expectations of direct involvement in the electoral process.

“Uganda will play its role within limits, but it is incumbent upon the citizens of South Sudan and their authorities to ensure that their elections are peaceful, credible and internationally recognized. That entirely lies in their hands,” Twaib said.

If successfully conducted, the December 22 elections will mark a historic moment for South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011 and has since experienced years of political instability and conflict.

The polls are expected to test the country’s democratic institutions while giving South Sudanese citizens an opportunity to shape the future of their nation through the ballot.