President Kiir Calls for Unity, Voter Education Ahead of December 2026 Elections

(JUBA) – President Salva Kiir Mayardit has called on South Sudanese citizens to remain united and actively participate in the country’s democratic process as preparations intensify for the December 2026 elections.

Speaking during celebrations marking the country’s independence anniversary at the Presidency in Juba, President Kiir urged citizens to continue working together to promote peace, national cohesion and prosperity.

In a Video Message published on the official Facebook page of the President on Thursday, Kiir described the upcoming elections as a historic milestone for South Sudan, noting that they will be the first elections held since the country gained independence and are expected to mark the end of the transitional period that began in 2018 under the Revitalized Peace Agreement.

Addressing the gathering, Kiir called on political parties, civil society organizations and other stakeholders to support voter education and encourage citizens to register in large numbers.

“Fellow citizens, we are currently preparing for the first elections since independence, and this process presents a milestone in the revitalized peace agreement and will conclude the transitional period underway since 2018,” President Kiir said.

“I therefore urge all political forces and civil society organisations to encourage widespread participation in the upcoming voter registration exercise. This registration will enable our citizens to exercise their democratic rights during the elections this December,” he added.

The President emphasised that peaceful participation in the electoral process would help strengthen democracy and consolidate gains made under the peace agreement.

The national ceremony at the Presidency brought together senior government officials, members of the diplomatic community, military generals, representatives of political parties, religious leaders, civil society organisations and academics.

South Sudan is expected to hold elections in December 2026 as part of efforts to complete the political transition and allow citizens to choose their leaders through a democratic process.