UN Expresses Urgent Need for Reforms in South Sudan Ahead of Elections
The UN has stated that there is no desire for additional extensions of South Sudan’s transitional period. Nicholas Haysom emphasized the need for leaders to focus on key peace agreement benchmarks and accelerate necessary reforms amidst ongoing security challenges. With elections approaching in December 2026, urgent action is required to address significant gaps and improve conditions for vulnerable communities.
On February 5, 2025, Nicholas Haysom, the head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), addressed the Security Council, confirming that there is a lack of willingness for further extensions of the transitional period in South Sudan. Haysom emphasized the necessity for South Sudanese leaders to prioritize compliance with established benchmarks from the peace agreement without further procrastination.
Haysom noted that despite some advancements, significant challenges persist. He called for accelerated reforms in critical areas such as the security sector, arrangements for upcoming elections, and amendments to constitutional and judicial processes. The urgent need for action was accentuated, with the transitional period approaching its limits.
As the timeline for elections in December 2026 looms, Haysom pointed out critical unmet conditions such as the full deployment of unified security forces and essential voter education initiatives. He called attention to the absence of a coordinated work plan with a timetable for the imminent elections, insisting that time is of the essence, as delays in funding and governmental decisions hinder progress.
Haysom expressed concern over ongoing communal violence and its impact on the vulnerable populations of South Sudan, particularly women and children. He highlighted recent conflicts in Western Equatoria and the prevalence of illegal checkpoints that underscore the fragile security situation.
In his briefing, Haysom indicated that the timelines for constitution-making and census do not align with the upcoming electoral framework, reiterating that the lack of government resources and decisions is a significant impediment to these processes. He warned that without political commitment to advance the peace agreement, the international community would not provide financial support for its implementation.
Haysom acknowledged that the humanitarian, economic, and security crises in South Sudan could exacerbate as elections approach. The UN mission remains committed to protecting civilians, upholding human rights, and supporting the peace process, while navigating operational challenges, including a recent request from the government concerning UNMISS headquarters.
The situation in South Sudan continues to be precarious, characterized by a transitional government that is struggling to fulfill the benchmarks outlined in a peace agreement. With elections scheduled for December 2026, there is a pressing need for South Sudanese leaders to act decisively in managing security issues and instituting necessary reforms. The role of the UN and its mission in South Sudan is critical in supporting peacekeeping, civilian protection, and the promotion of human rights amidst ongoing violence and instability.
In summary, the UNMISS head, Nicholas Haysom, conveyed significant concerns regarding the lack of political will to meet the benchmarks of South Sudan’s peace agreement. With elections on the horizon, urgent action is required to address security challenges, implement reforms, and ensure resources for the successful execution of the electoral process. The international community’s support hinges on demonstrable progress by South Sudan’s leaders in these critical areas.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
