JUBA — The regional bloc, Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), has reaffirmed its support for South Sudan’s peace agreement and ongoing plans toward the holding of national elections in December 2026.
The regional bloc made the commitment following a high-level meeting with President Salva Kiir in Juba on Wednesday.
The meeting, held at the Office of President Salva Kiir Mayardit, was attended by the IGAD Special Envoy to South Sudan, Ambassador Moussa Djama Ali, and the IGAD Head of the Social Development Unit, Dr. Victoria Anib Majur.
The discussions also focused on recent political developments, implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), and efforts to ensure a peaceful and democratic transition.
Amb. Moussa Djama Ali, the IGAD Special Envoy to South Sudan, emphasized the need for the parties to “underscored the importance of sustained political dialogue, confidence building, and adherence to the provisions of the agreement in advancing peace, stability, and national cohesion.”
Ambassador Ali reaffirmed the regional organization’s commitment to supporting South Sudan’s transition process.
“The IGAD remains committed to “accompanying South Sudan in the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement and in creating conditions conducive to peaceful, credible, inclusive, and transparent elections.”
For his part, President Salva Kiir Mayardit reiterated his government’s commitment to advancing the peace process and working closely with regional and international partners to restore peace and stability in the country.
“Our work here in South Sudan is very straightforward. If you go with us, we will go a very long distance,” Kiir said.
The meeting comes at a critical time as South Sudan works to implement key provisions of the 2018 peace agreement and prepares for elections scheduled for December 2026, which are expected to shape the country’s democratic future.
South Sudan has never held elections since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011.
The country’s first post-independence elections have been repeatedly postponed due to conflict, political disagreements, insecurity, and delays in implementing key provisions of the 2018 peace agreement.
In September 2024, the transitional government extended its mandate by another two years, pushing elections to December 2026.
The extension was intended to provide more time to complete critical tasks required under the peace deal, including drafting a permanent constitution, unifying armed forces, conducting a national census, and preparing electoral institutions.
However, concerns remain among civil society groups, opposition parties, and international partners over slow progress in implementing these benchmarks.
Several regional and international actors have warned that delays could undermine public confidence in the peace process.
