·      Hon. Prof Abednego Akok Kacuol, Chairperson of the National Elections Commission;

·      Representatives of the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU);

·      Excellencies;

·      Distinguished Guests;

·      Ladies and Gentlemen!

1.   On behalf of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC), I am honoured to join you at this important occasion marking the official launch of the South Sudan’s National Civic and Voter Education Campaign.

2.   Today’s event represents a significant milestone in the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and in the country’s journey towards democratic governance. This launch demonstrates a shared commitment to ensuring that South Sudanese citizens are informed, empowered, and prepared to participate meaningfully in shaping the future of their nation through a democratic process.

3.   Civic and voter education is far more than a technical electoral activity as it is a fundamental pillar of democratic participation. It enables citizens to understand their rights and responsibilities, to make informed choices, and to engage constructively in the electoral process. A well-informed electorate is essential for building public confidence in elections and for ensuring that electoral outcomes genuinely reflect the will and aspirations of the people.

4.   As South Sudan moves towards the planned elections, it is imperative that no citizen is left behind. Women, youth, persons with disabilities, internally displaced persons, returnees, and communities in remote areas must have equal access to accurate and timely information. The success of this campaign will therefore depend on its reach, inclusiveness, credibility, and ability to foster informed participation across the country.

5.   At the same time, civic and voter education can only be effective within an environment that supports fundamental freedoms and democratic engagement. RJMEC therefore reiterates the importance of maintaining an open civic and political space in which political parties, civil society organisations, faith-based institutions, community leaders, and the media can operate freely and responsibly. Such an environment is indispensable for encouraging public dialogue, strengthening trust, and ensuring broad participation in the democratic process.

6.   RJMEC also wishes to underscore the critical importance of ensuring that the National Elections Commission is adequately supported to carry out its mandate effectively. This includes the timely provision of the political backing, legal framework, financial resources, and operational support necessary for the Commission to function independently, professionally, and impartially. Strong and credible electoral institutions are indispensable to the conduct of peaceful, free, fair, and credible elections.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

7.   The tasks that lie ahead remain substantial and time-sensitive. The success of South Sudan’s transition and electoral process will require sustained cooperation among all stakeholders. It demands enhanced political will, national ownership, and a collective commitment to placing the interests of the people above all other considerations.

8.   In this regard, RJMEC also appeals to the regional and international partners, including IGAD, the African Union, the United Nations, development partners, and the wider international community, to continue and, where possible, strengthen their support for South Sudan’s electoral preparations. Technical expertise, logistical assistance, capacity building, and financial support will remain essential to reinforcing electoral institutions, enhancing public confidence, and promoting peaceful participation throughout the electoral process.

9.   As the body mandated to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, RJMEC remains committed to supporting efforts aimed at creating the conditions necessary for a credible democratic transition. RJMEC will continue to engage constructively with all stakeholders and encourage progress on all outstanding benchmarks that are critical to successful elections.

10.    Allow me, therefore, to conclude by commending the National Elections Commission and all partners involved in organising this campaign.

11.    Let this launch serve not merely as the commencement of a public awareness initiative, but as a renewed national commitment to democratic participation, peaceful coexistence, and the collective pursuit of a stable, united, and prosperous South Sudan. 

12.    I thank you for your attention. God bless South Sudan!