Kenyan President William Ruto has urged South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit to pursue dialogue and consensus among political parties ahead of the country’s planned December 2026 general elections.
President Ruto made the remarks during bilateral talks with President Kiir at State House in Nairobi on Monday, as Kenya reaffirmed its readiness to support South Sudan through the electoral process.
Ruto said Kenya welcomed South Sudan’s preparations for the December polls and encouraged continued engagement among the country’s political actors to help create conditions for the elections.
The two leaders also discussed the longstanding relations between Kenya and South Sudan, with both sides expressing a commitment to strengthening cooperation and expanding opportunities for trade and investment.
Ruto thanked President Kiir for South Sudan’s participation in the launch of the Dangote East Africa Refinery in Lamu last week.
Kenya has maintained close political and economic ties with South Sudan, dating back to the country’s liberation struggle and continuing after independence in 2011.
South Sudan is preparing for its first general elections since independence, with the polls currently planned for December 2026.
The election preparations come amid ongoing political discussions over the implementation of the peace process and the conditions needed for a credible electoral process.
Kenya’s latest position adds to regional calls for South Sudan’s political leaders to resolve outstanding issues through dialogue as the country moves towards the planned elections.
