By Matik Kueth
President Salva Kiir has reiterated the SPLM’s commitment to national dialogue and political inclusivity ahead of the general elections scheduled for December 2026.
The president made the statement on Wednesday after meeting the SPLM Secretary General, Dr. Akol Paul Kordit, at the State House.
According to the President’s office, Kiir emphasized the party’s strategic focus on restoring peace, ensuring stability, and conducting timely elections.
Dr. Akol confirmed that the SPLM will convene a caucus leadership meeting to assess the political environment and reinforce the party’s founding values of liberation.
He stressed that dialogue with all political parties, particularly those who are signatories to the Revitalized Peace Agreement, is crucial for building a peaceful, united, and democratic South Sudan.
Akol further called on all political forces to embrace dialogue as a pathway to unity, peace, and successful democratic governance, signaling a potentially constructive lead-up to the country’s historic elections.
However, in recent days, clashes between the SSPDF and SPLA-IO, as well as other armed groups, including the White Army, Agwelek, and Abushok, have been reported in parts of Jonglei, Eastern Equatoria, and Unity States.
Civilians continue to flee these areas for safety as fighting persists, in apparent violation of the peace agreement.
Despite the unrest, the government insists that elections will take place in December 2026, a move the SPLA-IO has rejected, warning that any attempt to hold elections will trigger attacks on Juba and other states.