Prod. Abenego Akook, Chairperson of South Sudan National Elections Commission. Photo: Wol Mapal/Eye Radio

The Chairperson of the National Elections Commission says the participation of South Sudanese refugees and IDPs in the upcoming elections will depend on arrangements yet to be determined by relevant authorities.

Speaking during the launch of a civic and voter education event in Juba on Monday, Prof. Abenego Akok Kachuol said refugees cannot be compelled to return home solely for electoral purposes.

He said their participation will largely depend on their willingness and the legal frameworks of the countries hosting them.

Prof. Akok explained that refugees have recognized legal status in their host countries and therefore cannot be forced to return to South Sudan to take part in the electoral process.

He added that refugees who wish to participate in the elections could potentially be registered in their countries of asylum if the necessary arrangements are agreed upon.

“The issue of the refugees will be determined and the displaced people. Well, the refugees, they have the status in the country they are in. Nobody can force them to come. But if they have the will to come, that’s one. Number two, if they can pressure the government, they can be registered there,” he said.

The commission chairperson did not elaborate on which governments would be approached or the mechanisms that could be used to facilitate voter registration and voting for refugees abroad.

According to UNHCR, there are nearly 2 million internally displaced people inside the country, while another 2.4 millions South Sudanese are living in neighbouring countries as refugees after fleeing conflict.

The participation of refugees and displaced populations remains one of the key issues in discussions surrounding preparations for the country’s anticipated elections, with concerns over inclusivity and the ability of all eligible citizens to exercise their constitutional right to vote.

The National Elections Commission is currently conducting civic and voter education activities across the country as part of preparations for the polls.

The commission has also indicated that it expects to officially announce the election date on June 22, in line with the implementation roadmap of the Revitalized Peace Agreement.