A civil society signatory to the 2018 peace deal has warned that failure to review electoral constituencies on time could spark a legitimacy crisis for the government ahead of the 2026 polls.
In a statement delivered under CEPO’s Pre-Election Domestic Observation Initiative, Executive Director Edmond Yakani cautioned that the government and political parties who signed the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement (R-ARCSS) risk losing legal and constitutional legitimacy if they fail to meet key timelines required by the National Elections Act (Amendment) 2023.
“By 22nd December 2025, South Sudan must know its new constituencies for the 2026 elections. Any delay questions the legality and legitimacy of the current government,” Yakani warned.
According to the Act, Section 41 (1e) mandates the National Elections Commission (NEC) to review and rename constituencies at least 12 months before the scheduled elections, set for December 2026.
Mr. Yakani emphasized that this provision is critical for ensuring the credibility and preparedness of the electoral process.
Yakani further cited Section 41 (1f) of the same law, which provides that in the event of failure to complete the review in time, the 2010 constituencies shall automatically apply for the 2026 elections.
“The law gives us a fallback option if the government cannot meet this requirement, the 2010 constituencies will be used. We will not accept any more extensions or postponements,” he stated firmly.
The civil society leader accused political elites of dragging their feet and recycling excuses to extend the transitional period, warning that public patience has run out after repeated postponements since the signing of the peace accord.
“We are tired of the political culture of endless extensions. Citizens expect elections to be held in December 2026 as promised no more delays,” Yakani said.
He urged the leadership of the ruling coalition and opposition parties within the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGoNU) to begin a national dialogue focused on creating minimum conditions for a free, fair, and peaceful vote.
Yakani also cautioned against what he described as “spoilers and profiteers of violence” within the political system, accusing them of deliberately stalling key reforms to benefit from instability.
“We know the spoilers who thrive in political uncertainty. Their tactics of delay and manipulation must end,” he added.
The warning from CEPO comes as the country approaches a crucial phase in its transition, with the election timeline tightening and critical benchmarks including the population census, constituency demarcation, and security arrangements still incomplete.
Civil society organizations have repeatedly called on the government to demonstrate political will and respect for the peace agreement, saying the upcoming elections will serve as a true test of leadership commitment to democracy and stability in South Sudan.
