Political Parties Council Endorses Election Code of Conduct Ahead of 2026 Polls

(JUBA)-Political Parties Council (PPC) has endorsed an Election Code of Conduct for all registered political parties and approved the deployment of regional election officials as part of preparations for the country’s planned general elections in December 2026.

The decisions were reached during a plenary session held Tuesday in Juba, according to a statement issued by the council.

The newly adopted code establishes rules governing the conduct of political parties and their members during the electoral period. It promotes democratic principles, peaceful political competition, mutual respect among political actors and gender inclusion, while prohibiting intimidation, hate speech and the use of weapons in political activities.

PPC Chairperson Eng. James Akol Zakayo said the endorsement of the code represents an important milestone in strengthening democratic governance and ensuring political parties adhere to agreed standards ahead of the elections.

“The Election Code of Conduct serves as a foundational instrument to regulate the activities and ethics of political organizations,” the statement read in part.

The council also approved the appointment and deployment of coordinators and inspectors to all states and administrative areas to oversee compliance with electoral regulations and monitor political activities at the local level.

According to the PPC, the regional officials will be responsible for ensuring adherence to the code of conduct, resolving disputes among political parties and strengthening electoral oversight across the country.

The council described the move as a key step toward decentralizing electoral monitoring and improving regulatory enforcement ahead of the polls.

The measures are intended to fulfill provisions of the Political Parties Act, 2012, as amended in 2022, and support the country’s preparations for democratic elections.

The PPC also urged political organizations that have not yet completed their registration to do so before the June 30 deadline.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Zakayo warned that political groups that fail to register and align themselves with the newly endorsed code by the deadline will not be eligible to participate in the December elections.

“The Council reminds all political parties that the strict registration deadline remains June 30, 2026,” the statement said.

South Sudan is preparing for what would be its first national elections since gaining independence in 2011. The polls are viewed as a critical component of the country’s transitional process following years of conflict and political instability.

The Political Parties Council expressed appreciation to political parties, civil society organizations and international partners for their support in advancing the electoral process.

The council acknowledged the assistance of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in helping facilitate preparations for a credible democratic transition.

With less than six months remaining before the planned polls, the PPC says it will continue working with political stakeholders to ensure compliance with electoral regulations and promote a peaceful and inclusive campaign environment across the country.