KENYA CIVIL SOCIETY CALLS FOR POSTPONEMENT OF SOUTH SUDAN ELECTIONS AMID CONCERNS OVER STABILITY.

BY BERNARD MULWA.

The Kenya Civil Society has issued a call for the postponement of South Sudan's general elections, which are slated for December 2024. This appeal comes amid growing concerns that South Sudan, a nation preparing for its first-ever elections, is not adequately prepared for a vote that could jeopardise peace if marred by disputes or mismanagement.

In a statement, the Kenyan Civil Society expressed apprehension that conducting elections in just three months could exacerbate existing tensions and potentially lead to renewed conflict. They emphasized the need for a more stable foundation before proceeding with such a significant electoral process.

The statement also urged the international community to play a crucial role in supporting South Sudan's peace efforts. "The failure of the South Sudan Peace process could lead to another round of bloody conflicts," the statement warned, highlighting the importance of continued global support.

Further, the Kenyan Civil Society called on Presidents Salva Kiir of South Sudan and William Ruto of Kenya to collaborate on drafting a permanent constitution for South Sudan. They argued that a well-structured constitution is vital for governance, peace, and economic recovery, and essential for conducting credible elections.

"We, as the civil society in Kenya, are ready to assist South Sudan in constitution-making, governance, and ensuring that elections are credible," the statement affirmed. It also underscored the need for ongoing international support to prevent the peace protocols from becoming mere formalities rather than actionable frameworks.

The statement concludes with a plea to the global community to not abandon South Sudan during this critical period, emphasizing that without significant and timely assistance, the country’s peace protocols could fail to address the severe humanitarian crisis and underlying challenges it faces.