Representatives of political parties, civil society organizations, and government officials pose with the signed Declaration of Essential Principles following a ceremony in Juba on Friday. The signatories pledged to reject violence, hate speech, and political intimidation ahead of the December 2026 general elections. (Photo Courtesy)

South Sudanese political parties, civil society organizations, and key national stakeholders have signed a landmark Declaration of Essential Principles, committing to reject political intimidation, hate speech, and election-related violence ahead of the scheduled December 2026 general elections.

The signing ceremony, held on Friday, July 31, brought together leaders from the National Alliance of Political Parties, broader political entities, and civic groups seeking to secure a peaceful and stable environment as South Sudan approaches the conclusion of its transitional period.

The declaration commits signatories to uphold the rule of law, foster constructive cross-party dialogue, refrain from inflammatory rhetoric, and guarantee that citizens can exercise their voting rights free from coercion.

Addressing delegates at the event, Kornelio Kon Ngu, Chairperson of the National Alliance of Political Parties, called on political leaders to champion democratic norms and prioritize national unity over partisan conflict.

“We gather here today as an alliance to sign the Declaration of Basic Principles for the General Elections in South Sudan, affirming everyone’s commitment to creating a suitable environment for free and fair elections through the free will of the people,” Ngu stated. “The upcoming elections represent a historic opportunity to consolidate peace, achieve unity, and complete the democratic transition.”

Speaking on behalf of the national government, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Albino Akol Atak, emphasized that comprehensive civic education must accompany political pledges to ensure a transparent electoral process.

Minister Akol noted that a peaceful transition of power depends on clear public understanding of the roles played by political entities, state institutions, and the electorate.

“Our people have to know that there is an event that is going to take place—the elections. It is part of civic education,” Minister Akol explained. “Political parties must know their role, the government institutions tasked with these exercises must know their roles, and the people of South Sudan must know theirs. This is how we will achieve a complete, peaceful election environment.”

The declaration marks a crucial step in multi-party confidence-building efforts as electoral management bodies continue preparations for the country’s historic polls.