By Matik Kueth
The Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Nicholas Haysom, appealed to the government to accomplish outstanding peace benchmarks prior to the December 2026 elections.
Haysom, who spoke at the UN Security Council meeting on Thursday, stated that the constitution-making and census timetables do not currently align with the December 2026 election.
He said a shortage of government funds, as well as delayed legal and political decisions, are delaying down the peace deal processes.
“The parties should be under no illusions that there will be resources from the international community to sponsor the implementation of the peace agreement, ending with elections, if there is no evidence of political will to accelerate implementation of the key benchmarks,” Haysom said.
While highlighting significant accomplishments such as commitments to expand political and civic space, improved access to justice through mobile courts, progress in operationalizing the National Elections Commission, and election security training, Haysom stressed that none of these are enough to “move the needle” on the critical decisions required for elections.
The UNMISS Chief warned that as South Sudan grapples with humanitarian, economic, and security concerns, the situation will remain volatile as the election season approaches.
He further reiterates UNMISS’s determination to continue to protect civilians, strengthen human rights and the rule of law, as well as promote the peace process in the scope of its mandate and capacities.
“I affirm that UNMISS stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the people of South Sudan on their journey from conflict to stabilization and democratization,” he stated.
The need for decisive action and agreement on critical problems grows as the December 2026 elections approach. The next six months will determine whether South Sudan can successfully move from a war-torn past to a future of democratic governance and stability.