The electoral office in Western Equatoria State has appealed for firm support from government institutions, civil society, and development partners to boost public awareness and community mobilization ahead of the December 2026 General Elections.
Speaking to journalists in Yambio on Tuesday, Simon Bakama, the chairperson of the state elections commission, said adequate resources are urgently needed to ensure citizens are well informed about the electoral process, voter registration, and their rights and responsibilities before polling day in December 2026.
He revealed that the state elections high committee is operating without funding from the National Elections Commission (NEC) and is struggling to conduct mobilization activities using its limited resources.
“We do not have funding to engage women, community leaders, youth, persons living with disabilities, and other stakeholders in preparations and community awareness at the county level,” he said.
Despite the financial gaps, the commission has secured office space and furniture with the support of UNMISS, which Bakama said demonstrates ongoing preparations and the government’s commitment to holding elections in 2026.
He stressed that early civic education campaigns are essential, especially in rural areas where access to information remains limited. Officials say preparations for the polls will require logistical support, civic education materials, training of volunteers, and targeted outreach to women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
Bakama reassured the public that both the government and development partners are committed to ensuring credible, transparent, and peaceful elections in Western Equatoria State.
“We appeal to the community to cooperate with the commission, understand their civil rights, and support efforts so that elections take place in 2026,” he added.
The commission urged all stakeholders to work together to create an enabling environment for free and peaceful political participation as South Sudan moves toward its long-awaited democratic transition.
Citizens in Western Equatoria and across the country say they remain hopeful that the necessary conditions for elections will be provided, enabling them to choose their leaders for the first time since independence in 2011.