AU backs South Sudan’s 2026 elections, rules out further extension
By Debora Akur Chol, Brown Land Reporter South Sudan
The African union (AU) has reaffirmed its support for South Sudan’s political transition, expressing confidence in the country’s preparations for the December 2026 general elections following high-level talks in juba
The meeting between President Salva Kiir Mayardit and the AU High Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, Jakaya Kim were focused on key political, legal, and democratic priorities ahead of the polls.
Kikwete described the visit as a crucial opportunity to engage a wide range of stakeholders and assess the country’s readiness for elections.
“This is the first time I am engaging with all stakeholders, receiving briefings on the situation in the country, and gathering views on key issues and needs,” Kiir’s office said on Thursday.
He noted that the consultations offered firsthand insights into the challenges, expectations, and priorities shaping South Sudan’s transition.
Ongoing political disagreements and persistent security concerns continue to strain the country’s path toward stability following the civil wars of 2013 and 2016.
Discussions placed particular emphasis on sustained inter-party dialogue, which both sides identified as essential for building consensus and ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
The AU also stressed the importance of allowing judicial processes to proceed independently, describing this as vital for strengthening the rule of law and maintaining institutional credibility during the transition.
Additionally, the continental body endorsed South Sudan’s decision to amend provisions of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) in line with Article 8.4, recognizing it as a legitimate step within the framework of the agreement.
With limited time remaining before the elections, both parties acknowledged the need to prioritize and sequence key reforms. It was agreed that several major components of the peace processincluding the constitutional review, national population census, and aspects of security sector reform would be deferred until after the elections.
Kikwete noted that the Juba meeting, alongside earlier engagements such as the C5 and Pretoria consultations, has contributed to a more unified approach among stakeholders.
He added that the outcomes of these discussions would be presented to the AU as part of ongoing efforts to support South Sudan’s transition.
Reaffirming its commitment, the AU emphasized that it stands ready to support South Sudan in achieving lasting peace, stability, and credible elections.
The country’s first general elections, now scheduled for December 2026, have been postponed multiple times due to continued tensions.
The envoy stressed that there will be no further extension beyond the agreed timeline.
“There will be no extension,” he said, describing President Kiir’s assurance as “important news for both the region and the international community.”
