South Sudan has officially postponed its presidential elections, which were originally scheduled for December 2024, by two years to December 2026.
This decision, announced by the government, was made due to incomplete preparations, such as delays in conducting a national census, finalizing the permanent constitution, and registering political parties.
The extension is part of efforts to ensure that these critical tasks are completed before a vote can be held.
This marks the second time the elections have been delayed, following the extension of the transitional period that began in 2020.
The country has faced numerous challenges, including economic instability, with civil servants going unpaid for a year due to a damaged oil pipeline in neighboring Sudan, which has disrupted exports.
Furthermore, ongoing peace talks have stalled, contributing to the country’s fragile political situation.
Critics have expressed concerns that further delays could lead to unrest, with some warning that failing to meet the election deadline could increase the risk of violence across the country.
South Sudan remains vulnerable after a civil war that killed over 400,000 people and displaced millions between 2013 and 2018.
