(MOROBO / YEI RIVER COUNTY) – South Sudanese returnees from neighbouring Uganda have appealed to President Salva Kiir’s caretaker administration to restore peace and stability as the country moves towards the December 2026 general elections.
The returnees say worsening living conditions in refugee settlements have compelled many families to voluntarily return home despite ongoing challenges, with many expressing hope that lasting peace will allow them to rebuild their lives and participate in the country’s democratic process.
Among them is Alfred Bidal, who recently resettled in Morobo Town after spending several years in Uganda’s Bidi Bidi Refugee Settlement. Bidal said deteriorating conditions in the camp, including shortages of food and medicine, influenced his decision to return home and resume farming.
“I settled in Bidi Bidi Refugee Camp for many years, but I returned to my hometown because the situation in the camps is no longer good. There is not enough food and medicine,” he said. “What we want from the President and other leaders is peace and stability in our country so that we can vote for leaders of our choice.”
Another returnee, who identified himself only as Arike, said communities are seeking sustainable development rather than humanitarian assistance.
“What we want from the government is not food. We want peace, good roads, health centres and schools for our children,” he said. “We want to participate in the elections, but we need peace and security in Morobo and other towns.”
In Yei Town, Emmanuel Mabe, who returned two months ago, described his joy at coming back home after years in exile but stressed that security remains the most urgent need for returning families.
“I have been in Yei Town for two months now, and I am happy to be back home,” Mabe said. “What we want from the government and the President is peace. We want to return to our farms and rebuild our homes in the villages when peace returns.”
The appeals come at a critical time as South Sudan prepares for its first elections since independence. On 22 September 2026, President Salva Kiir dissolved the national cabinet and parliament, a move aimed at paving the way for citizens to elect their leaders in the December polls.
President Kiir has repeatedly reaffirmed his government’s commitment to peace, security and improved service delivery, urging caretaker officials across the country to uphold transparency, accountability and effective governance.
For many returnees, however, peace remains the key to a successful transition. They say stability will not only enable displaced families to return home permanently but also ensure that citizens can freely participate in shaping the country’s future through democratic elections.
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