US Says Timing and Scope of South Sudan Elections Are Sovereign Decisions

The United States has responded to recent accusations from the South Sudanese government that Washington and other Western countries have been interfering in the country’s internal affairs.

Last week, South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the ambassadors of three Western countries, including the United States, seeking clarification over what the government described as interference in domestic matters.

In a statement released on Monday, the United States reaffirmed its position on South Sudan’s proposed general elections, stressing that decisions regarding the timing and scope of the polls ultimately belong to the South Sudanese people.

The US said it recognises elections as a sovereign matter and does not seek to deny South Sudanese citizens their right to determine the political future of their country.

At the same time, Washington emphasised the importance of holding elections in a peaceful and stable environment. It called on South Sudan’s leaders to prioritise peace, development and the responsible use of the country’s resources, while also taking greater responsibility for financing the electoral process.

The United States has been a longstanding supporter of South Sudan, including during the country’s struggle for independence. Washington also played a significant diplomatic role in supporting the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement, which brought rival political groups into a Transitional Government of National Unity.

The transitional arrangement was designed to create the conditions for peace, constitutional reform and eventual national elections, although implementation of several key provisions has faced repeated delays.

Relations between South Sudan and some Western governments have become increasingly strained amid disagreements over the political transition and the detention and prosecution of First Vice President Dr Riek Machar and several other accused individuals.

Western governments have repeatedly called for political dialogue and raised concerns about Machar’s detention and the wider impact of the case on the peace process.

Machar is currently facing legal proceedings in Juba over allegations he has denied.

He returned to the South Sudanese capital in 2020 as part of the power-sharing arrangements under the peace agreement, once again serving alongside President Salva Kiir in the transitional government.

The latest exchange highlights continuing tensions between Juba and its international partners as South Sudan approaches a critical stage in its political transition and preparations for national elections.