National Elections Commission (NEC) has inaugurated its Central Equatoria State High Elections Office, a move to prepare groundwork for the upcoming polls.
Speaking during the inauguration, Paulino Lukudu Obede, acting governor of Central Equatoria State, said the new office represents a significant milestone in strengthening democratic institutions within the state.
Lukudu further stated that the opening of NEC’s office will enhance inclusivity, expand civic engagement, and empower the state’s high electoral committee to prepare for the anticipated 2026 elections.
The Acting Governor reaffirmed the State Government’s unwavering commitment to fostering strong collaboration with the NEC to ensure that elections are conducted in a timely, credible, and peaceful manner.
“The presence of this office will significantly enhance coordination, transparency, and information dissemination to citizens across Central Equatoria State. You must guarantee that elections genuinely reflect the will of the people,” Lukudu stressed.
Meanwhile, Chairperson of the National Elections Commission, Prof. Abednego Akok, expressed the Commission’s full readiness to deliver free, fair, and transparent elections.
The NEC Chairperson praised Central Equatoria Government for allocating land for the construction of the election office, calling it a demonstration of shared commitment to democratic processes.
“The opening of this office in Central Equatoria State signals the NEC’s determination to meet its constitutional mandate and uphold democratic governance,” Akok stated.
The inaugurated electoral office was constructed with support from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and other international partners.
This collaboration intends to enhance institutional capacity and create a favorable environment for holding free, fair, and credible elections.
Speaking on behalf of United Nations, Mr. Darren Nance, Head of United Nations Integrated Electoral Assistance Team, emphasized the vital role that elections play in any democratic society.
“The UN, alongside its agencies and in coordination with the African Union, IGAD, and RJMEC, stands firmly with the people of South Sudan in supporting the implementation of the Peace Agreement and the realization of credible elections,” Nance affirmed.
While the unity government has faced challenges in implementing some critical tasks required for conducting free, fair, and credible elections, the establishment of electoral offices in various parts of the state marks a pivotal moment in South Sudan’s democratic trajectory.
It also reaffirms the NEC’s commitment to inclusive, participatory governance across all states.
