The UK has urged South Sudan to develop a credible work plan for the upcoming 2026 elections amidst a precarious political climate and an ongoing humanitarian crisis. The UK expressed concern over delays in election preparations and called for adequate funding and resources to support efforts toward peaceful and inclusive electoral processes.
During a recent UN Security Council meeting, Ambassador James Kariuki, the UK’s Deputy Permanent Representative, expressed deep concern about the recent violence against civilians in Sudan and the resultant unrest in South Sudan. He highlighted the urgent humanitarian crisis, noting that over one million people have fled Sudan to seek refuge in South Sudan since the conflict began, and commended the South Sudanese government’s efforts to aid these individuals.
Kariuki emphasized that the political landscape in South Sudan is unstable, with persistent restrictions on political activities and slow progress on the unification of security forces. He pointed out the necessity of implementing a work plan for the upcoming 2026 elections. The lack of a detailed strategy raises concerns about the feasibility of conducting credible elections within the established timeline.
The ambassador praised the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) for its role in enhancing the electoral institutions’ capabilities. He urged the Transitional Government to support these initiatives by providing adequate funding and ensuring timely payments for public servants, including security personnel, thereby enabling conditions favorable for peaceful and inclusive electoral processes.
In conclusion, Ambassador Kariuki called on the Transitional Government of South Sudan to promptly publish a comprehensive work plan for elections and to undertake necessary measures towards enabling credible elections as stipulated for 2026.
The United Kingdom’s diplomatic engagement with South Sudan focuses on addressing humanitarian crises, promoting political stability, and facilitating credible electoral processes. As South Sudan grapples with the ramifications of the ongoing conflict in Sudan, the need for effective leadership and organized election planning becomes increasingly urgent. The humanitarian influx has further intensified the demands on already strained resources within South Sudan.
The UK’s call to South Sudan underscores the critical need for the Transitional Government to act swiftly in preparing for the 2026 elections. Without a credible strategy and adequate resources, the prospects for political stability and humanitarian recovery may weaken further. Immediate action is essential to ensure elections are inclusive and recognized as legitimate by the international community.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
