President Salva Kiir shakes hands with NEC boss, Prof. Abednego Akok|Courtesy

The Chairperson of the National Elections Commission (NEC), Professor Abednego Akok Kacuol, has proposed temporary constituency adjustments to address unresolved territorial disputes ahead of South Sudan’s planned general elections on 22 December 2026.

Speaking after a meeting with President Salva Kiir Mayardit in Juba on Tuesday, Professor Akok said the Commission is recommending the creation of a standalone constituency for Abyei. He added that Abiemnom and Mayom would temporarily share a single constituency to facilitate the electoral process.

According to the NEC chairperson, the proposals are intended to address longstanding territorial disputes that could affect the conduct of peaceful and credible elections.

Professor Akok said the unresolved issues involving Abyei and Twic, Ruweng and Mayom, as well as Kafia Kingi, require tailored political solutions to ensure inclusive and credible polls.

He said the Commission briefed President Kiir on the country’s electoral preparedness and discussed the timeline for the upcoming elections.

“The President has been informed of the Commission’s recommendations, and key decisions reached during the meeting will be communicated to the public within the next two to three days,” Professor Akok said.

The meeting comes as the National Elections Commission continues preparations for voter registration and other pre-election activities ahead of South Sudan’s first post-independence general elections, scheduled for 22 December 2026.

The Commission is expected to announce further details on the implementation of the proposed constituency arrangements and the electoral roadmap in the coming days.