International representatives at a three-day forum in South Sudan have expressed urgent concerns regarding the dwindling time available to organize credible elections in the nation.
Established in 2020, the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity postponed the elections for the third time last year.
The forum, co-hosted by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and the African Union, brought together prominent political, security, and civil society figures from the country.
Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for South Sudan and head of UNMISS, stated, “Many believe that the current delays are due to the international community’s failure to provide necessary funding and resources for the elections. However, I must emphasize that no financial support will be available for these elections unless the South Sudanese demonstrate the political will to implement the electoral program.”
Haysom warned that if the forum does not yield tangible progress, it will further disappoint the South Sudanese populace, leading to a decline in confidence regarding their political future. “People will closely observe the actions taken by South Sudanese leaders to show their commitment to moving beyond this delayed transition,” he added.
Joram Biswaro, head of the African Union Mission in South Sudan, remarked that the time for “business as usual” has passed. “While we recognize the essential requirements, the willingness to uphold these values appears to be lacking. It is crucial to understand that we cannot continue with the same approaches and expect different outcomes; therefore, a change is necessary,” he stated.
The forum aimed to finalize transitional security arrangements, advance a permanent constitution, and prepare for upcoming elections. Kuol Manyang Juuk, Chair of the National Transitional Committee, assured attendees that elections would occur by the end of the current term, despite the challenges faced.
