South Sudan launches nationwide voter education drive ahead of Dec 2026 elections

South Sudan’s National Elections Commission (NEC) inaugurated a country‑wide civic and voter education campaign in Juba, marking a key step toward the nation’s first general elections since independence, scheduled for 22 December 2026. NEC Chairperson Prof. Abednego Akok Kacuol emphasized that the program is non‑partisan, aiming to inform citizens on voter registration, voting procedures, ballot secrecy and electoral rights, with special outreach to women, youth, persons with disabilities, internally displaced persons and other vulnerable groups.

The launch was attended by government officials, political parties, civil‑society groups, faith‑based organisations, traditional leaders and international partners. Vice President James Wani Igga urged all South Sudanese to register and vote peacefully, while UNMISS representative Darren Nance highlighted the importance of an informed electorate for credible elections. The NEC appealed for continued technical and financial support from the United Nations, African Union, IGAD and other development partners to ensure a transparent, peaceful and inclusive electoral process.