Political parties drop census, constitution ahead of 2026 polls

JUBA – Political parties in South Sudan have agreed to postpone the national population census and permanent constitution-making process until after the December 2026 general elections, according to resolutions reached during a high-level meeting chaired by President Salva Kiir on Wednesday.

The meeting, attended by leaders of political parties to review the final phase of the transitional period, resolved that the two major exercises—originally key components of the Revitalised Peace Agreement—will instead become priority programmes for the post-election government.

According to a statement from the office of the president, the leaders say the decision aims to avoid delays and ensure a smoother organisation of the country’s first elections since independence.

SPLM Secretary-General Dr Akol Paul Kordit said the political parties unanimously endorsed amendments to key provisions of the Revitalised Agreement to remove remaining obstacles ahead of the polls. He noted that the amendments are designed to “clear the way” for the election roadmap, which has experienced several extensions since 2020.

Beyond deferring major transitional tasks, the leaders agreed to establish two committees to manage pending issues and support electoral preparations. A political committee comprising representatives of the parties will discuss unresolved matters, while a legal committee chaired by the Minister of Justice will oversee the drafting and implementation of necessary legislative changes.

Officials who attended the meeting say the latest resolutions signal a renewed commitment by political actors to reach elections peacefully and strengthen democratic governance after years of delays. They view the decision to postpone key national processes as a practical compromise intended to keep the electoral timetable intact while avoiding disputes that could derail preparations.

The government has yet to release the timetable for the proposed electoral amendments, although officials insist that the leadership remains committed to guiding the country toward a “peaceful and democratic” transfer of power.

Observers hope that if delivered as planned, the 2026 elections could offer South Sudan a decisive opportunity to reset its political direction and enhance stability after more than a decade of conflict, transition and uncertainty.