The prospect of South Sudan holding free, fair, and secure elections in December 2024 appears precarious, according to the head of the UN Mission in the country, Nicholas Haysom. In a briefing to the UN Security Council, Haysom emphasized that crucial conditions must be met in order to move forward with the planned elections.
Haysom outlined key prerequisites including the establishment of a new permanent constitutional framework, detailed voter registration, an election security plan, a well-trained and unified security forces, and a mechanism for resolving disputes over election results. Emphasizing the significance of these conditions, Haysom stressed that they are essential for creating an environment conducive to credible and acceptable elections for South Sudanese citizens.
Highlighting the challenges impeding the electoral process, Haysom expressed concerns over the country’s dire economic situation, exacerbated by climate shocks and a fragile political environment. He warned that holding elections under these conditions could lead to heightened tensions and pose a threat to civilians.
In response to the potential risks, UNMISS (UN Mission in South Sudan) has taken proactive measures to mitigate the possibility of violence during the electoral period. These measures include maintaining a robust presence in potential hotspots, deploying peacekeeping reserves, conducting extensive patrols, and enhancing political and civil engagement at both community and national levels.
Beyond electoral concerns, Haysom also drew attention to the dire humanitarian situation in South Sudan, worsened by the ongoing conflict in neighboring Khartoum. With two-thirds of the population facing food insecurity and over nine million people dependent on assistance, including two million internally displaced, the humanitarian caseload in South Sudan continues to grow. Additionally, the country remains perilous for humanitarian operations, with numerous aid workers falling victim to attacks.
Looking ahead, Haysom cautioned that 2024 is anticipated to be a difficult and challenging year for South Sudan and the region as a whole. Despite these challenges, he affirmed UNMISS’s unwavering commitment to fulfilling its mandate to the best of its ability.
The cautionary remarks from Haysom point to a critical juncture in South Sudan’s path to democratic stability, underscoring the need for concerted efforts to address the prevailing impediments. As the country navigates these challenges, it is evident that international attention and support remain imperative in shaping a sustainable and peaceful future for South Sudan and its people.
