David Thompson, the Director of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission in South Sudan - Credit: Moses Awan/ Eye Radio, December 11, 2024

The USAID South Sudan Mission Director has emphasized the critical need for free and fair elections in South Sudan to ensure that leaders are accountable to the people.

Speaking during an interview on Eye Radio’s Dawn program on Wednesday, December 11, Thompson underscored that for democracy to thrive, the country must elect leaders who prioritize the needs and welfare of South Sudanese citizens.

“For democracy to thrive, this country needs free and fair elections to elect leaders who will be accountable to the people of South Sudan,” Thompson stated, highlighting the cornerstone of democratic governance.

He also stressed that South Sudan is rich in resources, which, if managed transparently and effectively, could support the country’s electoral process without relying on external assistance.

“This country has resources that, when used transparently and appropriately, could support elections without looking for external support,” he said.

Thompson emphasized that while USAID is considering supporting South Sudan’s 2026 elections, the transitional government must show tangible progress toward ensuring free and fair elections.

He noted that the government must demonstrate real efforts in implementing reforms and making strides toward democratic processes.

“We want to see demonstrable evidence that the transitional government is making real efforts and progress toward that goal,” Thompson added.

The USAID Mission Director also called on South Sudanese leaders to take ownership of the country’s challenges, particularly in responding to emergencies, improving disaster preparedness, and ensuring that public funds are used transparently for the benefit of the people.

“The transitional government has a critical role in responding to emergencies by mobilizing resources, improving disaster preparedness, and ensuring that public funds are used transparently,” he said.

Furthermore, Thompson stressed that effective international support depends on the country’s ability to foster stability and accountability.

“South Sudanese leaders must also create the conditions that enable effective international support by fostering stability and accountability,” he stated, urging leaders to prioritize the needs of their citizens.

Thompson’s comments reflect a broader call for South Sudanese leadership to take ownership of the nation’s future, prioritize good governance, and set a path toward democratic elections in 2026.

As the country prepares for the electoral process, the international community, including USAID, stands ready to assist, provided that tangible progress is made toward meeting the necessary conditions for free and fair elections.