National Elections Commission Headquarters in Juba. Photo credit: Wol Mapal/Eye Radio

The National Elections Commission (NEC) has announced the acquisition of Aida Hotel in Juba as its permanent headquarters, describing the move as a major milestone for the institution ahead of South Sudan’s anticipated elections.

Speaking during a press conference on Monday, NEC Chairperson Prof. Abenego Akok Kachuol said the commission had secured ownership of the property following the completion of key payments under an agreement with the seller.

Prof. Akok said the acquisition marks the first time the electoral body has obtained a permanent home, which he said would serve the commission for generations to come.

“The payment for Aida Hotel has been completed and it is now owned by the Election Commission of South Sudan,” he told journalists.

“This is a very big achievement for us as South Sudanese, that there is a building for the Election Commission forever. It will exist for generations to come.”

The NEC chairperson thanked the government for supporting the purchase, saying the acquisition would strengthen the commission’s institutional capacity and provide a stable base for its operations.

According to Prof. Akok, the property was acquired at a total cost of 6.5 million U.S. dollars. He said 4.5 million dollars has so far been paid, while the remaining two million dollars is expected to be settled in accordance with the agreement reached between the parties.

“The total amount was 6.5 million dollars. So far, we have cleared 4.5 million dollars while two million remains pending and it will be completed with time,” he said.

He added that the agreement had already granted the commission ownership rights over the property, making Aida Hotel the official headquarters of the South Sudan National Elections Commission.

The acquisition comes as the NEC intensifies preparations for the country’s elections, with the commission seeking to strengthen its institutional structures and operational readiness ahead of the polls.