South Sudan’s President Urges Swift Election Preparations Amid Transition Period Debate

South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has warned lawmakers against an extension of the transition period, arguing it would deny citizens an opportunity to choose their leaders.

He urged parliament to pass necessary laws to pave the way for elections. Parliament Speaker Jemma Nunu Kumba said lawmakers would redouble their efforts to ensure all prerequisites for elections are met.

This comes just weeks after Salava Kiir’s deputy and former rival Riek Machar proposed a postponement of elections expected to be held in December. South Sudan became independent in 2011 and was due to hold elections in February 2023.

However, the government of national unity of Salva Kiir and Riek Machar has failed to meet key clauses of the deal. The nation is working to establish a permanent constitution, an electoral commission, and a unified police force to provide security.

The country is facing an economic crisis due to a decline in oil exports after war-torn Sudan declared force majeure on oil shipments passing through the country.