By Deng Machol
JUBA, South Sudan – South Sudan’s ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) has stepped up its political mobilization ahead of the country’s anticipated general elections, signaling a new phase in what could become one of the most consequential moments in the nation’s long-delayed democratic transition.
The renewed political momentum comes as South Sudan enters a critical period marked by growing domestic and international pressure to hold credible elections after years of postponements linked to the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement.
With the recent release of the national electoral timetable by the National Elections Commission (NEC), political activity across the country appears to be shifting from planning to active preparation, with parties positioning themselves for what many hope will be South Sudan’s first peaceful and democratic transfer of political power.
During a high-level meeting held on Thursday in Juba and chaired by SPLM Chairman and President Salva Kiir Mayardit, the party leadership formally endorsed the electoral roadmap and reaffirmed its commitment to participating fully in the forthcoming elections.
The meeting brought together senior members of the ruling party, including Second Deputy Chairperson Mary Apai and Third Deputy Chairman Simon Kun Pouch, underscoring the importance the SPLM attaches to the electoral process.
Speaking after the meeting, SPLM Secretary-General Dr. Akol Paul Kordit said the party had instructed its structures across the country to intensify preparations and strengthen organizational readiness.
“The SPLM reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the democratic process and its full readiness to participate in the upcoming elections,” Dr. Akol told state broadcaster SSBC.
As part of its broader political strategy, the SPLM plans to convene expanded consultative meetings in Juba involving state chairpersons, governors, chief administrators, and other senior officials. These meetings will assess the strength of party structures across the country and lay the groundwork for the 10th SPLM National Convention.
Beyond domestic preparations, the ruling party is also seeking to deepen ties with governing parties across the region through partnership agreements, exchange programs, and workshops focusing on governance, political organization, and election management.
The renewed mobilization reflects increasing political activity in South Sudan as the country approaches what many observers consider a defining test of its democratic aspirations, political stability, and commitment to fully implementing the peace process.
For many South Sudanese, the coming elections represent more than a political contest—they are viewed as a crucial opportunity to consolidate peace, strengthen democratic institutions, and chart a more stable future for the world’s youngest nation.
