South Sudan elections face credibility risks
RJMEC warns political disputes and incomplete reforms threaten the December 22 general elections.
The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has warned that South Sudan's planned December 22 general elections face credibility risks. Political disputes, insecurity, and delays in implementing key reforms could undermine public confidence in the vote, according to RJMEC's third-quarter report released on Wednesday.
RJMEC noted that disagreements among political parties over the legal process and the government's amendment of the peace agreement without proper approval could affect the elections. Security concerns, including armed clashes and intercommunal violence, also pose a threat to voter registration, campaigning, and the safety of candidates and voters.
The report also highlighted delays in constitutional reforms, with no progress in the permanent constitution-making process during the reporting period. RJMEC urged South Sudan's political leaders to resolve differences through dialogue and fulfill their commitments under the peace agreement for a peaceful end to the transitional period.
Why it mattersSouth Sudanese citizens face potential risks to the credibility of their upcoming general elections due to unresolved political disputes and ongoing insecurity.