By Majok Guet Kuol
Bor, South Sudan – March 26, 2025
The State High Electoral Commission (SHEC) of Jonglei State, in collaboration with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), held a one-day consultative meeting in Bor with civil society organizations, women’s groups, and youth representatives. The meeting aimed to enhance awareness of the electoral process and update stakeholders on the ongoing preparations for South Sudan’s highly anticipated 2026 elections.
The workshop brought together 50 participants from various organizations, highlighting the crucial role of civil society in ensuring a peaceful, democratic, free, and fair electoral process in the country.
Strengthening Civil Society’s Role in Elections
During the meeting, Hon. Tuor Majok, Chairperson of the State High Electoral Commission, underscored the importance of engaging civil society groups in the electoral process.
“It is crucial for the NEC, in collaboration with the SHEC, to update civil society organizations on the electoral process in the country. Civil society are the strong pillars and key stakeholders in the process of having peaceful, democratic, free, and fair elections in South Sudan,” he said.
The session provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss key electoral challenges and explore ways to promote transparency and inclusivity in the upcoming elections.
NEC Updates on Electoral Preparations
Representing the National Elections Commission (NEC) from Juba, Nyilueth Malou Malek reassured participants of NEC’s commitment to conducting free and fair elections in December 2026. She highlighted that training for electoral commission members on voter registration and security processes has already commenced.
“We are committed to ensuring free and fair elections. Training on voter registration and security measures is already underway to strengthen the process,” Malek stated.
Her remarks aimed to instill confidence among stakeholders as the country prepares for its first elections since independence.
UNMISS Reaffirms Support for Democratic Elections
UNMISS representative Gilbert Nanisa commended the initiative by the Jonglei State electoral commission, describing the workshop as a positive step toward restoring trust in South Sudan’s electoral process.
“This is a step in restoring confidence among South Sudanese that the country will go for democratic elections. The United Nations is ready to support a peaceful election that does not fuel conflict in the country,” Nanisa said.
However, he also emphasized that significant work remains, including setting clear timelines, securing election funding, and ensuring all South Sudanese—including internally displaced persons (IDPs) and those in hard-to-reach areas—are informed and included in the process.
Building Toward Free and Fair Elections
The consultative meeting in Bor served as an important milestone in fostering dialogue between electoral officials and civil society organizations. As South Sudan moves closer to its December 2026 elections, initiatives like this workshop will be essential in ensuring transparency, inclusivity, and credibility in the process.
With ongoing training, awareness campaigns, and support from partners like UNMISS, stakeholders hope that South Sudan will take a decisive step toward strengthening its democratic institutions and holding its first truly free and fair elections.