King Media, Juba – President Kiir has urged parties to the agreement to organize themselves and stand for the presidency in the upcoming elections. South Sudan is expected to go to the polls in December 2024.
Kiir’s political party has expressed readiness for elections with widespread rallies for endorsing him as the flag bearer happening across all state capitals.
However other political parties have had mixed opinions as to whether the election will take place next year. They have argued that several milestones according to the R-ARCISS have not been made.
In September, the Revitalized Transitional National Legislative Assembly (R-TNLA) passed the National Election Act 2012 (Amendment) Bill 2023, guaranteeing the possibility of conducting elections in 2024. However, stakeholders and signatories to the revitalized Peace Agreement have continued to call for a neutral political parties’ council.
The President said election was the way adding that there was no need to engage in activities that would destroy the country and harm the people.
“We are establishing South Sudan as a democratic country and anybody who wants to become a president has the right to organize their party and contest peacefully without violence,” said Kiir.
He has asked the parties to the agreement to continue to cooperate in implementing the 2018 peace accord.
“That is the only surest way to build a strong foundation for a political, stable, and democratic South Sudan. It is also the only way for socioeconomic recovery and prosperity,” said Kiir.
While the preparation for the elections heats up, the political and civic space is shrinking. Other political parties have accused the government of intimidation and harassment.
The United Kingdom Ambassador has expressed concern about the shrinking political and civic space.