Election official outlines three pillars for credible elections

2026-03-22 - 12:24

The National Election Commission (NEC) has identified consensus, legal clarity, and time as the essential requirements for conducting credible and peaceful elections in South Sudan. Speaking at a stakeholders’ conference, NEC representative Daniel Makum stated that the success of the electoral process depends on resolving outstanding issues regarding boundaries and representation. “From the standpoint of the National Election Commission, the outcomes of this dialogue are particularly significant as the conduct of credible, inclusive, and peaceful elections depends heavily on clarity and consensus in these areas,” Makum stated. Makum noted that overlapping jurisdictions and challenges in constituency delimitation create operational constraints that affect voter registration and the overall integrity of the process. “Questions regarding boundaries and presentations present not only legal challenges but also operational constraints that can affect voter registration, constituency delimitation, and overall integrity of electoral process,” Makum said. “We have heard concerns about overlapping jurisdictions, the need for fair and equitable representation, and the importance of strengthening coordination between levels of government.” As the institution mandated to deliver elections, the NEC emphasized the urgency of addressing these matters within the legal and constitutional framework. “These are legitimate concerns that require careful consideration and above all a spirit of compromise and national interest,” Makum noted. “Clear decisions supported by law and embraced by the stakeholders provide the foundation upon which the Commission can plan and execute its responsibilities effectively.” Makum outlined three specific requirements for the government and stakeholders to ensure the quality of the upcoming elections. He stated that: “Consensus building is essential. This means that a sustainable solution must be inclusive and accepted to avoid contestation during the electoral process.” Kuma says on legal clarity, he stated that legal clarity is critical. “The Commission relies on well-defined laws and regulations to guide state work, and uncertainties can lead to disputes that undermine public confidence in the electoral process. The official stated that time is of the essence. “Electoral preparation needs adequate time. Delays in resolving these issues will inevitably affect timelines and the quality of the elections.” In his closing remarks, Makum called on participants to translate the deliberations into concrete actions and policy decisions. “The responsibility does not end here; it should begin here and let us translate this deliberation into concrete actions and policy decisions,” Makum concluded. “The National Election Commission remains committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure that the people of South Sudan have the facility to exercise the democratic rights in a credible and peaceful manner.”