South Sudan is preparing for its first-ever post-independence elections, scheduled for 22 December 2026, but questions about the country’s electoral readiness remain pressing. 

A new assessment by the Standard Action Liaison Force (SALF), conducted under the AHEAD Africa project, examines the state of preparedness through three lenses: citizen engagement, the legal framework, and the capacity of electoral institutions.

Drawing on surveys, interviews, focus groups, and legal analysis across six states and one administrative area, the study finds strong public interest in democratic participation despite years of delays and uncertainty. At the same time, it highlights major challenges, including gaps in electoral legislation, limited institutional capacity, delays in voter registration, insufficient civic education, and unresolved provisions of the peace agreement.

The findings point to both opportunity and risk. While South Sudanese citizens are eager to shape their country’s future through the ballot box, ensuring credible and inclusive elections will require urgent efforts. The months ahead will be critical in determining whether the 2026 elections can mark a meaningful step towards democratic governance and lasting stability in the world’s youngest nation.