The country is facing a severe, multi-dimensional crisis marked by threats to the 2018 peace agreement, hyper-inflation, and renewed armed conflict.

By James Chatim

President Salva Kiir and Vice President for Economic cluster Dr. James Wani Igga on Monday held a discussion to address the current security and economic challenges facing the country.

According to the presidential press unit, the meeting held at the State House in Juba, also focused on preparations for the upcoming polls and the current political situation in South Sudan.

As of early 2026, the security and economic situation in South Sudan has deteriorated, placing the country’s first-ever general elections rescheduled for December 22, 2026 at significant risk.

The country is facing a severe, multi-dimensional crisis marked by threats to the 2018 peace agreement, hyper-inflation, and renewed armed conflict.

Dr. Igga who served as SPLM First Deputy Chairman also updated the President on internal matters of the party, focusing on organisational issues critical in strengthening the SPLM’s role in South Sudan’s political process.

He also briefed the president on recent concluded Mundari Cultural Festival describing it as a vital forum that promotes unity, peaceful coexistence among communities with the government rallying people behind peace and reconciliation

However, the meeting comes at a time when the government endeavours to consolidate peace and guide the country towards a prosperous future.

On Tuesday, during the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) National Secretariat joint caucuses meeting, party’s 1st Deputy Chairman Prof. James Wani Igga, emphasized the party’s central role in guiding South Sudan toward peaceful and inclusive elections.

“SPLM stands for building a peaceful and prosperous South Sudan,” Prof. Igga said, underscoring the importance of the party’s leadership in the electoral process.

Meanwhile, building on peace as a path to boosting investor confidence and development, SPLM Secretary General, Dr. Akol Paul, summarized the chairman’s message into four election-focused points: commitment to elections, dialogue within the party and with other political parties, unity of SPLM, and preparation for the upcoming polls.

And last week, President Kiir directed the management of the National Revenue Authority to enhance revenue collection and strictly enforce existing regulations, saying the government must strengthen its financial base to meet national obligations.

President emphasized the importance of effective revenue collection in sustaining government operations and supporting national development. He instructed the authority to intensify efforts to ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations as provided under existing legal frameworks.

The Commissioner General told the President that the National Revenue Authority has the capacity to collect sufficient revenue to cover government salaries, finance public operations, and support other critical national projects. However, he noted that several challenges continue to undermine effective revenue collection.

As the country journeys towards the December 2026 elections, the public is hopeful that leaders will champion peace and economic stability.