IGAD Backs South Sudan’s 2026 Elections, Urges Inclusive Process

By Awan Achiek

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Council of Ministers has expressed support for South Sudan’s planned general elections in December 2026, while calling for an inclusive and transparent electoral process.

The regional bloc made the commitment during its 74th Extraordinary Session of the Council of Ministers, held in Djibouti on September 15.

Ambassador Apuk Ayuel Mayen, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, revealed the IGAD Council of Ministers’ support for the planned December elections while addressing media on Wednesday, following the return of Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. James Pitia Morgan from the recently concluded summit.

“The Council also gave its full support to South Sudan’s planned general election in December and pledged to help mobilize funds and international partners’ support,” Apuk said.

She added that the Council of Ministers of the regional bloc also expressed unwavering support for the implementation of the 2018 peace deal.

“Furthermore, the Council congratulated the member states that have successfully conducted their elections, such as Uganda, Ethiopia, and Djibouti, while expecting South Sudan to conduct its election in December 2026 and Kenya in 2027.”

She said South Sudan’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Pitia, held a meeting with Abdoulkader Houssein Omar, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Djibouti, on the sidelines of the summit.

Apuk revealed that the two ministers discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

She said Djibouti’s Minister Abdoulkader expressed solidarity with South Sudan as the country prepares for the upcoming general elections and conveyed his intention to visit South Sudan ahead of the elections.

According to Apuk, Minister Pitia also participated in regional discussions on peace and security developments in South Sudan, Sudan, and Somalia; the Red Sea; and Bab el-Mandab; and the role of IGAD in supporting regional peace, security, and stability.

The National Elections Commission has been preparing for the polls, including the declaration of 102 geographical constituencies for the December 2026 elections.

The elections are expected to mark the end of South Sudan’s prolonged transitional period, although the process continues to face political and logistical challenges.

IGAD’s latest position emphasizes dialogue, inclusivity, and transparency as preparations move forward.