South Sudan’s opposition urges the government to delay upcoming elections, citing security and stability concerns.
Opposition leaders argue necessary conditions for free, fair elections are absent.
Insecurity, lack of reforms, and poor preparations are key issues in South Sudan.
Violence in Jonglei and Upper Nile states hinders safe electoral participation.
First Vice President Riek Machar stresses addressing security and also governance issues first.
Machar calls for peace implementation, disarmament, and reintegration of combatants.
Human rights organizations warn premature elections could worsen violence.
UNMISS suggests reassessing the election timeline for stability.
Sudan President Salva Kiir’s administration again insists elections proceed as scheduled.
The country delaying elections seen as opportunity to strengthen institutions.
Postponement could also foster trust in political process, analysts say.
Pressure mounts on President Kiir for comprehensive political solutions.
“There are also no conditions for elections now. Our people are still divided. We need to reconcile our people,” states Pagan Amum, leader of the opposition delegation.
“We need to meet all the prerequisites of holding a free and fair election. Holding elections in a divided environment, without a single army, and with political parties having their own militias and forces, could lead us back to conflict and war also which we want to avoid at all costs.”
International community monitors situation, mediates discussions for consensus.
Upcoming months crucial for South Sudan’s peaceful democratic transition.
The country’s fragile peace process faces critical test. Efforts continue to balance democratic aspirations with practical realities.
