FILE PHOTO: Edmond Yakani, the Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), January 10, 2026. [Photo: Eye Radio]

A civil society activist has called on South Sudan’s political leadership to strictly follow established legal procedures as the country moves to amend the 2018 peace agreement (R-ARCSS).

In a statement to Eye Radio, CEPO Executive Director Edmond Yakani reacted to the Council of Ministers’ unanimous endorsement of the Amendment Bill 2026—a scheme designed to pave the legal way for the December 2026 elections.

While acknowledging the public’s desire for timely polls, Yakani noted that original preconditions, such as the permanent constitution-making process and a national census, are no longer feasible within the remaining timeframe.

“We have realized that it is essential to amend the R-ARCSS specifically to create a conducive legal framework,” Yakani stated. He argued that “delinking” the elections from the census and the permanent constitution is a practical necessity to meet the December deadline.

However, the civil society leader issued a firm warning against bypassing the legal procedures enshrined in the peace deal. He emphasized that any amendment must be conducted by triggering Article 8.4, which requires a consensus and a vote through the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (R-JMEC).

“Let the proceedings for amendment be respected,” Yakani urged. “Let us not have a shortcut on interpretation. We appeal to our leaders to follow the same procedures that were used for the extensions in 2022 and 2024.”

He specifically raised concerns over proposals to tamper with Articles 8.2 and 8.3, which deal with the supremacy of the agreement. Yakani argued that these articles have no direct link to the electoral process and should remain untouched to maintain the integrity of the peace deal.

Beyond the legal framework, Yakani highlighted a looming crisis regarding election readiness. He pointed out that the National Election Commission (NEC) is facing critical deadlines, including the June 22, 2026, deadline for announcing the final voters’ list.

“Time is running out,” Yakani warned, citing a lack of adequate and timely funding for the NEC. “The tactic of demanding extensions through amendments while not funding the commission is disturbing. We appeal to our leaders: commit yourselves to the elections and adequately fund the National Election Commission now.”

Yakani concluded by suggesting that the National Election Commission, rather than political leaders alone, should be in the “driving seat” to propose the specific technical amendments they need to successfully deliver the polls.