JUBA, June 22, 2026 – President of the Republic, H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, on Monday received the African Union High Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, H.E. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, following the conclusion of the envoy’s five-day consultation mission in South Sudan.

The meeting provided an opportunity for H.E. Kikwete to brief the President on the findings of his engagements with a broad range of stakeholders, including political parties, opposition groups, the National Elections Commission (NEC), the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC), the Political Parties Council (PPC), representatives of the African Union, IGAD, UNMISS, members of the diplomatic community, and other key actors involved in South Sudan’s transition process.

Kikwete informed President Kiir that he was encouraged by the progress being made by South Sudanese institutions tasked with implementing the Revitalised Peace Agreement and preparing the country for elections.

He particularly commended the work of the National Elections Commission, noting the significant preparations underway to organize credible elections. He also welcomed progress made by the Political Parties Council, which has so far registered many political parties to participate in the country’s democratic process.

The AU envoy noted that while some challenges remain, many of them are manageable and can be overcome through cooperation and commitment by all stakeholders. He observed that the legal requirements for party registration, including demonstrating representation across the ten states and three administrative areas, as well as meeting provisions for women’s participation, are achievable and provide a workable framework for inclusive political participation.

Kikwete further welcomed the progress being made by the National Constitutional Review Commission, noting that extensive civic education efforts have already been undertaken and that work on drafting the permanent constitution continues to advance steadily.

President Kiir reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the Revitalised Peace Agreement and ensuring that South Sudan remains on course toward peaceful, democratic elections. The President informed the AU envoy that preparations for inter-party dialogue on election-related matters are progressing and will provide an important platform for building consensus among political stakeholders.

The President also highlighted ongoing progress in the security sector, including the continued integration and deployment of unified forces, which remains a critical component of the peace process and national stability.

President Kiir emphasised that peace remains at the center of all government efforts and reaffirmed his determination to guide the country toward a peaceful and democratic future.

“South Sudan has overcome many challenges since independence. We have endured the conflicts of 2013 and 2016, as well as the more recent incidents in Nasir, yet our people continue to demonstrate resilience and determination. We are stronger today than we were yesterday, and we must continue to persevere in our pursuit of lasting peace, stability and prosperity,” President Kiir said.

Both leaders reaffirmed the importance of unity, dialogue and cooperation among all South Sudanese stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the peace agreement and the conduct of peaceful, credible elections that reflect the aspirations of the people of South Sudan.

Source: Office of the President, Republic of South Sudan (op.gov.ss)