Western governments unhappy about South Sudan election delay

Western Diplomatic Missions Express Disappointment Over South Sudan’s Election Delay

Eight Western diplomatic missions, including the United States, conveyed their “regret and disappointment” regarding South Sudan’s decision to postpone its inaugural elections by two years. Initially scheduled for December 2024, the general elections have been deferred to December 2026 due to lack of preparedness, marking the second delay since the country gained independence in 2011. The extension of the transitional period has been attributed to the ongoing economic crisis, leading to unpaid civil servants and organized forces for nearly a year.

The collective statement from the UK, US, Norway, EU, Canada, France, Germany, and the Netherlands emphasized the critical role of timely elections in promoting stability, democracy, and sustainable development in South Sudan. The diplomats urged the government to prioritize peace and swiftly work towards creating conducive conditions for legitimate and peaceful elections. They urged all stakeholders to collaborate in facilitating transparent and inclusive elections, emphasizing the importance of engaging with all parties, including the ‘non-signatories’ to the peace agreement.

Despite the setbacks, the Western embassies reaffirmed their unwavering support for the people of South Sudan while pressing the government to present a transparent financial plan for sustaining the peace process during the extended transitional period.