South Sudan confirms that the 2026 general elections will be held on schedule.
Denying rumors of government extension
South Sudan’s Minister of Information, Communications and Information Technology, Ateny Wek Ateny, affirmed his government’s full commitment to holding the general elections on schedule in December 2026.
The South Sudanese Minister of Information categorically denied reports that there was any decision to extend the government's term, according to local media in South Sudan.
There is no intention to extend the government's term.
The minister said during a press conference for the media that the Cabinet and the Presidency had shown a “clear will” to ensure that the elections would be held at the end of 2026 without any postponement or extension, stressing that “there is no intention to extend the term of the government.”.
He explained that what was published in some media outlets and social media platforms about extending the transitional period is “incorrect and misleading to public opinion,” calling for accuracy in conveying official information.
Ating noted that the Cabinet recently approved a memorandum submitted by the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs regarding amendments to the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, based on Article (8.4) of the agreement, which allows for the possibility of introducing amendments through legal and constitutional frameworks.
The South Sudanese minister called on the media to adhere to professionalism and responsibility in their coverage, stressing that the media should be “a means of conveying the truth and not of spreading inaccurate information that may affect public stability.”.
Promoting peace and stability
Regarding the security situation in his country, the minister said that the country is experiencing “relative stability”, with some limited security challenges in parts of Jonglei State, noting the government’s continued efforts to promote peace and stability.
He also renewed the government’s call for all political parties, signatories and non-signatories to the peace agreement, to engage in national dialogue to ensure that elections are held in a peaceful and inclusive atmosphere.
The minister concluded his statement by emphasizing the government’s readiness to engage with journalists’ and media professionals’ questions, as part of promoting transparency and communication with the public.
