By Opio Jackson

The Chairperson of the National Election Commission (NEC), Prof. Abednego Akok Kachuol, has presented a comprehensive report on the election timeline to President Salva Kiir on Thursday

The report detailed the country’s preparedness for the upcoming general elections scheduled for December 2026.

Prof. Kachuol noted that they have made significant progress in the readiness efforts.

He informed the President that the NEC has also established functional offices in six States and the Administrative Areas, with the remaining States to be completed soon.

Prof. Akok acknowledged the efforts of the United Nations Mission (UNMISS) towards constructing some of these offices and training electoral personnel.

President Kiir praised the NEC for its steadfastness in preparing the nation for its democratic path as stipulated in the peace agreement and national goals towards achieving a durable stability.

However, on Wednesday, Prof. Akok told the media that the NEC was committed to meeting the election timelines.

He emphasized that the commission remains steadfast in adhering to the election date as outlined in the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement and the subsequent extensions of the transitional period.

In November of last year, the signatories to the peace agreement unanimously agreed to extend the transitional period to early 2027, with national elections scheduled to take place in December 2026.

Prof. Akok said that once NEC gets approval from President Salva Kiir, they will formally unveil their plans to the public.

However, he highlighted the significant challenges facing the commission, particularly the shortage of resources and prevailing insecurity, but reassured the public of his unwavering commitment to holding the elections.