RJMEC logo. Courtesy photo.

The Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) has warned that incomplete transitional security arrangements, inadequate funding and continued displacement of civilians remain major challenges as South Sudan prepares for general elections in December 2026.

In its latest Quarterly Report on the Status of Implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, RJMEC said the continued political and security stalemate since March 2025 has weakened trust among the parties to the agreement, undermined responsibility-sharing arrangements and slowed implementation of key provisions of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).

The peace monitoring body acknowledged progress by the National Elections Commission, including the announcement of the election date, expansion of civic and voter education activities and efforts to strengthen institutional preparedness.

However, RJMEC cautioned that unresolved legal and political issues, insecurity and restrictions on civic and political space raise concerns about the credibility, inclusivity and peaceful conduct of the upcoming elections.

“With general elections scheduled for 22 December 2026, the report acknowledges progress made by the National Elections Commission in announcing the election date, advancing civic and voter education and strengthening institutional preparedness. However, RJMEC cautions that major challenges remain unresolved, including incomplete Transitional Security Arrangements, unresolved legal and political issues, insecurity, restrictions on civic and political space, inadequate funding, and the continued displacement of millions of citizens. These challenges raise serious concerns regarding the prospects for credibility, inclusivity and peaceful conduct of the elections,” the report said.

The report also highlighted a deteriorating security situation in several parts of the country, noting that implementation of Phase II of the Necessary Unified Forces, the Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) programme and broader security sector reforms remain stalled.

RJMEC further raised concerns over worsening humanitarian conditions, saying more than 7.8 million people are projected to face crisis or worse levels of food insecurity, while internal displacement has exceeded 2.5 million people.

The commission reiterated the need for an inclusive South Sudanese political dialogue, in line with the AU C5 Plus Declaration of February, to rebuild trust among the parties, resolve the political impasse and build consensus on the peaceful conclusion of the transitional period.

RJMEC called on all parties to immediately cease hostilities and recommit to implementing the Revitalized Peace Agreement in both letter and spirit.

It also urged the Transitional Government of National Unity to restore confidence, expedite outstanding provisions, provide funding for key institutions, improve humanitarian access and accelerate preparations for peaceful, credible and inclusive elections.