Following the
announced dissolution of South Sudan’s Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity
, a decisive step towards the country’s first-ever elections scheduled for 22 December, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah, said:
“Ahead of these long-awaited and historic elections, South Sudanese authorities must ensure that a conducive environment exists for people to vote and stand in elections, including respect for and enjoyment of human rights, and freedom from discrimination and arbitrary or unnecessary and disproportionate restrictions.
“The legitimacy of any election depends not only on whether it is held, but on whether people can exercise their rights freely, safely and equally. For years, Amnesty International and other organizations have
documented
the repressive tactics deployed by the South Sudanese authorities to silence dissent, detain critics, and restrict freedom of expression and the right to protest.
Ahead of these long-awaited and historic elections, South Sudanese authorities must ensure that a conducive environment exists for people to vote and stand in elections, including respect for and enjoyment of human rights, and freedom from discrimination and arbitrary or unnecessary and disproportionate restrictions.
Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa
“At this pivotal moment, we call on the South Sudanese authorities to immediately guarantee the rights to freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly; end the intimidation of journalists, civil society actors and political opponents; and create conditions that enable all South Sudanese to participate in public affairs freely and without fear.”
Background
On 21 September,
President Salva Kiir Mayardit signed into law
The National Elections Act, 2012 (Amendment) Bill, 2026
, allowing him to remain in office with full constitutional powers throughout the elect
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