Preparing for credible, people-centered elections in South Sudan: Original Document From FRIEDRICH EBERT STIFTUNG
Preparing for credible, people-centered elections in South Sudan: Original Document From FRIEDRICH EBERT STIFTUNG
Survey data shows that popular demand for elections in South Sudan is high, notwithstanding most
respondents across the country anticipating heightened violence linked to the electoral process. Current
timelines however suggest that preconditions for credible, peaceful elections might not be fully met by
December 2024. Political will of the parties to the agreement will critically shape preparations, conduct and
outcomes of elections.
In early March 2023, FES South Sudan Office convened distinguished members of South Sudanese civil society,
academia, and political parties alongside electoral experts from UNMISS and international academia to
deliberate on the vision, practicalities, and challenges of South Sudan’s first elections scheduled for December
2024.
The following highlights key areas for action the group identified as critical for the delivery of a credible,
people-centered electoral process. A paper co-authored by CEPO executive director Edmund Yakani and
professor of democracy Nic Cheeseman integrating academic research with the reflections is forthcoming.
people-centered electoral process. A paper co-authored by CEPO executive director Edmund Yakani and
professor of democracy Nic Cheeseman integrating academic research with the reflections is forthcoming.
❖ Political dialogue should build consensus on an inclusive electoral framework. Restraint of the
dominant party may produce a more stable system that mitigates conflict risks. Buy-in from the
dominant party and the opposition is required to arrive at an electoral system and processes that favor
inclusive governance. Staggering state and national elections could ease pressure on electoral
commission and supporting institutions. An overwhelmed electoral commission is likely to make
mistakes that undermine confidence in the integrity of the vote.
❖ Political parties are central to the democratic process. Design of the electoral framework needs to
consider its impact on political parties and vice versa. The political party framework, parties’ capacity
and internal democracy shape outcomes of political representation. Electoral systems also to varying
degrees favor fragmentation or dominance of the political party landscape and shape intra-party
competition. Outside intervention in support of a conducive environment for elections should not
neglect political parties.
❖ Delimitation of constituencies must be conflict-sensitive. Stakeholders should pursue broad
consensus on criteria for constituency delimitation to deliver fair political representation and inclusive
participation. Evidence-based research should inform an assessment of conflict risks linked to
demarcation of constituencies. An inclusive consultative body comprising state and non-state actors
could accompany the delimitation process.
❖ Delivery of justice in electoral disputes is critical for credible elections. The burden of electoral
dispute resolution on the judiciary is set to test its capacity. Human resources and infrastructure of
judiciary and police must be strengthened to effectively adjudicate a potentially high number of
electoral disputes at national and sub-national level. Delayed or denied justice heightens conflict risks.
❖ Immediate investments in prevention of electoral disputes are needed. Electoral disputes often are
symptoms of existing political tensions or conflict in the constituency. Especially the churches have a
vital role to play in dispute prevention through confidence-building and silent diplomacy. South
Sudanese non-state actors could initiate a monitoring process for the electoral process to enable early
warning and response. A political parties council should build trust among parties, as well as between
parties and the electoral commission
