As South Sudan progresses toward its first post-independence elections, preparations continue across all branches of government. The Office of the President remains focused on ensuring that the electoral process is conducted in a free, fair, and credible manner that reflects the will of the South Sudanese people.

NAIROBI, October 5, 2026 — His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit has held bilateral talks with the President of the Republic of Kenya, His Excellency Dr. William Samoei Ruto, at State House in Nairobi. President Ruto reaffirmed Kenya’s full support for South Sudan as the country prepares to hold its first general elections since independence.

The two leaders reflected on the longstanding relationship between South Sudan and Kenya, rooted in South Sudan’s liberation struggle and strengthened by enduring bonds between their peoples. President Ruto assured President Kiir that South Sudan could count on Kenya’s support throughout this significant electoral process.

H.E. President Kiir thanked the leaders of the African Union C5 for their support for the electoral process and welcomed the recognition by the African Union Peace and Security Council at its 1364th meeting of the Government’s commitment to holding credible elections. President Ruto commended the launch of the Inter-Party Dialogue and encouraged South Sudanese political parties to maintain the spirit of dialogue and build consensus on election-related matters.

President Kiir affirmed that South Sudan has completed the necessary legal steps toward elections, while administrative, logistical and financial preparations are being implemented. He added that the Inter-Party Dialogue on Election-related Matters is ongoing as the Government works to provide the people of South Sudan with an opportunity to freely choose their leaders. Other outstanding national issues, he said, can be addressed following the elections. Both leaders underscored that successful elections in South Sudan are vital to peace and security in East Africa, the Horn of Africa and the continent.

The discussions also covered economic cooperation. President Kiir commended President Ruto’s leadership during the groundbreaking ceremony for the refinery in Lamu on September 30, 2026, describing the project as an important regional undertaking with immense economic and strategic benefits. President Ruto appreciated South Sudan’s high-level representation at the ceremony and highlighted opportunities for investment and broader cooperation under the LAPSSET Corridor.

President Kiir also sought President Ruto’s intervention to reduce charges on South Sudan-bound containers and expedite the operationalization of the dry port allocated to South Sudan in Naivasha.

President Ruto pledged to direct the relevant Kenyan institutions to work closely with the Embassy and Government of South Sudan to advance the matter. As engagements continue throughout the visit, follow-up meetings will further define areas of cooperation and advance the issues discussed by the two leaders.

— Analysis and additional reporting by Juba Global News Network.