Catholic Bishops of South Sudan posed for a photo in Juba on 29th June 2024. Photo Credit: Chuol Jany/CRN

Catholic bishops have warned that the country could face a transitional and constitutional crisis whether or not the planned December 2026 general elections take place.

The warning is contained in a communiqué issued after the bishops’ annual meeting in Juba from 15 to 17 July.

It follows the National Elections Commission’s announcement that general elections will be held on 22 December 2026.

The bishops noted that the election date falls during the Christmas season and urged political leaders and all stakeholders to recommit to the full implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement.

They said decisions on the electoral process should be guided by dialogue, mutual trust, constitutional order, legal clarity, adequate preparation, and the common good.

The communiqué was read on Friday on behalf of the bishops by Rt Rev Matthew Remijio Gbitiku Adam, Bishop of Wau and Vice President of the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference.

“We have keenly understood there is a looming transitional and constitutional crisis whether elections are conducted or not. As the shepherds of God’s people, we remain steadfast in our mission to promote peace, justice, reconciliation, and the dignity of every human person.

“We recognize the aspirations of our people for a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous South Sudan, where every citizen can live in freedom, security, and hope,” he said.

Bishop Remijio said the country faces a serious constitutional challenge regardless of whether the elections go ahead.

The bishops said the long-awaited elections should strengthen national unity instead of creating further divisions.

They also called on South Sudanese to reject violence, hate speech, tribalism, misinformation, and incitement.

The Catholic Church said it will continue to support the people through prayer, moral guidance, and constructive engagement. It added that a more detailed pastoral message on the elections and the country’s political situation will be issued in the coming weeks.