A Kenyan-led peace monitoring body has raised serious concerns over the credibility of South Sudan's first general election scheduled for December 22, 2026. The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) highlights that essential political, legal, security, and humanitarian conditions remain unmet, jeopardizing the electoral process.

Key Issues Undermining Election Credibility

  • Political Disputes and Legal Gaps: RJMEC points to unresolved political tensions, including the detention of First Vice President Riek Machar and the dismissal of opposition lawmakers, which weaken inclusive governance.
  • Security Challenges: Fighting persists in several states including Upper Nile and Jonglei. Security sector reforms and ceasefire implementations are incomplete, raising risks for peaceful voting.
  • Humanitarian Crisis: Over 7.8 million people face food insecurity, with more than 2.5 million internally displaced. The influx of over 1.3 million refugees from Sudan adds pressure, limiting voter participation for displaced populations.
  • Legal Process Concerns: Amendments to the 2018 peace agreement were submitted to Parliament without RJMEC’s consent, undermining trust in the peace framework.

Preparations Amidst Challenges

Despite these issues, the National Elections Commission has set the polling date and started voter education, while the Political Parties Council has registered 39 parties. However, RJMEC warns that these administrative steps are insufficient without resolving the broader obstacles.

Regional Impact and Kenya’s Interest

Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi emphasized that a stable South Sudan is vital for regional security, trade, and investment. He reiterated Kenya’s commitment to supporting peace during talks with South Sudanese counterparts.

RJMEC calls for inclusive electoral planning that addresses the needs of displaced persons and refugees to ensure a credible and peaceful election. The commission underscores that failure to meet the prerequisites outlined in the 2018 revitalized peace agreement threatens South Sudan’s fragile stability and the legitimacy of its inaugural polls.