Security fears, movement restrictions threaten political participation ahead of South Sudan elections
Security concerns and restrictions on political movement are limiting political parties’ ability to prepare for South Sudan’s planned December 22, 2026 elections, with an opposition leader saying some parties have identified candidates but are reluctant to announce them because of fears over their safety. Paulino Lokudu, leader of the United South Sudan Party (SSUP), says the absence of clear security arrangements for candidates is discouraging political parties from publicly declaring their nominees ahead of the polls. Speaking on Eye Radio’s Around South Sudan podcast, Lokudu said political parties had candidates ready for different positions but were concerned about exposing them to potential security threats. He said announcing a candidate, particularly for the presidency, should come…
