South Africa to Print Ballot Papers for South Sudan's 2026 Elections

In a significant move to bolster democratic processes in Africa's youngest nation, South Africa has committed to printing ballot papers and supplying essential electoral materials for South Sudan's upcoming general elections, scheduled for December 2026.

This commitment emerged from high-level discussions between President Cyril Ramaphosa and President Salva Kiir in Pretoria, where both leaders emphasized the importance of credible and transparent elections.

During the meeting, President Kiir reiterated his administration's dedication to conducting the elections as planned, aligning with the stipulations of the Revitalised Peace Agreement.

He acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence in overcoming them with the support of international partners.

President Kiir highlighted the necessity for substantial external assistance to ensure the elections' credibility, particularly in technical and logistical domains.

He specifically requested support in printing ballot papers and providing voter registration materials, underscoring the critical role these elements play in the electoral process.

Responding to this request, President Ramaphosa welcomed South Sudan's commitment to a democratic transition and affirmed South Africa's readiness to assist.

He emphasized the importance of inclusive and credible elections and confirmed Pretoria's willingness to support, including the printing of ballot papers—a task vital to maintaining election integrity.

President Ramaphosa stated, "South Africa is fully prepared to support our sister nation in every possible way," aligning his position with broader African Union initiatives aimed at stabilizing South Sudan's transition.

This offer of electoral support comes at a pivotal time, as South Sudan faces increasing domestic and international pressure to implement key provisions of the peace agreement.

These provisions include political reforms and security arrangements essential for conducting credible elections.

Beyond electoral matters, the discussions also explored avenues for strengthening economic ties between the two nations.

President Kiir extended an invitation to South African investors, highlighting opportunities in sectors such as mining, tourism, air transport, and oil.

He emphasized that South Sudan is "open for business" and eager to collaborate with regional and international investors for mutual economic benefit.

In a gesture of diplomatic solidarity, President Kiir conveyed condolences to the people of South Africa over the passing of Nicholas Haysom, the former head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), acknowledging his significant contributions to advancing South Sudan's peace process.

The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to deepening bilateral relations and collaborating to support peace, stability, and development in South Sudan.

South Africa, alongside the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), serves as a guarantor of South Sudan's peace process, positioning Pretoria as a key external actor in the country's journey toward its first elections since gaining independence.

As South Sudan prepares for its inaugural post-independence elections, the collaboration with South Africa in printing ballot papers and providing electoral materials marks a significant step toward ensuring a transparent and credible electoral process.

This partnership not only underscores the importance of regional cooperation in supporting democratic transitions but also highlights the shared commitment to fostering peace and stability in the region.