By Sekaggya Seka Moses
Juba, South Sudan –
South Sudan’s government has convened an emergency cabinet meeting in response to the announcement that national elections, initially scheduled for December, will be postponed to 2026.
The delay extends the tenure of President Salva Kiir’s transitional government, established under the 2018 peace agreement that ended the country’s five-year civil war. Riek Machar, Kiir’s former adversary, serves as deputy president.
This move marks the latest setback for South Sudan, which has not held national elections since gaining independence in 2011.
According to President Kiir’s office, the postponement is necessary to complete essential tasks, including drafting a new constitution, addressing logistical challenges, and ensuring security.
However, critics argue that the delay allows Kiir and Machar to maintain their grip on power in the oil-rich nation.
“The decision underscores concerns about the government’s commitment to democratic processes,” said a regional analyst.
The emergency meeting aims to address the implications of the postponement and outline a revised timeline for the elections.
South Sudan’s government faces mounting pressure to demonstrate progress toward democratic governance.