South Sudan reaffirms December elections, warns foreign powers against interference
The South Sudan government has reaffirmed its commitment to holding elections in December while warning the international community against interfering in the country’s internal affairs.
In a statement from the presidency, the government said implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement must not be used to justify a perpetual political transition.
“South Sudan welcomes the continued interest and support of international partners, including the United States, Japan, Norway, Germany, the United Kingdom and Canada, in strengthening peace, stability and development. However, partnership does not mean accepting directives from other countries. South Sudan is a sovereign nation, and its political decisions belong to its people and institutions. International support for the peace process must therefore be grounded in respect for South Sudan’s sovereignty and its right to determine its own political future,” the statement says.
The government said implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement remains an important national commitment but should not become a basis for extending the transitional period indefinitely.
It said South Sudan has made significant progress and must now move towards a democratic process that allows citizens to choose their leaders.
According to the government, the country has made political compromises, established transitional institutions and continued addressing outstanding provisions since the peace agreement was signed.
It said dialogue should continue where differences remain, but without the assumption that no progress has been made.
“Peace means creating conditions for citizens to exercise their political rights and for legitimate elected authorities to govern. This makes the planned elections essential to the people’s sovereign right to choose their representatives and determine the country’s direction,” the statement says.
The presidency further said international partners can provide expertise and support, but political decisions must remain the responsibility of South Sudanese citizens and institutions.
“South Sudan values its international partnerships, but partnership must not become an external direction. Constitutional, judicial, security and economic reforms must be owned and driven by South Sudanese institutions and citizens,” the government said.
The government also defended South Sudan’s judicial system as functional and said it must be allowed to carry out its mandate without external interference.
It said judicial processes should not be prejudged outside the courtroom and that political commentary must not replace due process.
“Respect for the rule of law also means respecting judicial procedures and the outcomes of completed processes. Reform should strengthen, not dismiss existing institutions,” the statement says.
The government said international engagement remains welcome, but must be based on mutual respect, partnership and respect for South Sudan’s sovereignty.
“The measure of peace should not be how long South Sudan remains in transition, but whether it can move toward a stable political order in which its people freely determine their future,” the statement concluded.