The UPA states that the decision violates the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan, 2018 (R-ARCSS, 2018) and the National Elections Act, 2012 (as amended in 2023).

“By setting an election date while key provisions remain incomplete, the NEC has failed in its role as an independent body,” a UPA spokesperson said. “This process does not meet the requirements for a lawful democratic transition.”

The UPA states that elections must follow the completion of a permanent constitution as required under Article 1.20 of R-ARCSS, 2018. It adds that security arrangements required under Article 2.1 have not been implemented, noting that forces remain without full unification, training, and deployment.

The UPA further states that the constitution-making process outlined under Chapter VI of the agreement has not been completed. It notes that the National Elections Act requires a population census and a new voter register for constituency demarcation, which have not been conducted, while many citizens remain displaced.

The alliance also states that conditions for political participation do not meet the requirements set out in national law, citing restrictions on assembly, speech, and political activity.

“An election without a constitution, unified forces, and a voter register cannot produce a lawful outcome,” the statement said. “Such a process will not reflect the will of the people.”

The UPA notes that the NEC acknowledged funding gaps and the need for legal changes when announcing the election date.

The alliance reiterates its position that elections cannot take place under the current conditions and calls for an inclusive national dialogue involving all stakeholders.

“The way forward is an inclusive national dialogue that leads to a neutral caretaker government,” the UPA said. “This process must complete the constitution, carry out security sector reforms, and restore political freedoms before elections are held.”

The UPA states that these steps would allow citizens to participate in elections based on law and agreed procedures.

The alliance calls on regional partners, the African Union, and the international community to support dialogue and not support processes that do not follow the peace agreement. “The people of South Sudan have the right to choose their leaders through a lawful process,” the statement said.