Amnesty International warns South Sudan over pre-election

Amnesty International has issued a stark warning to South Sudan's authorities ahead of the country's first-ever national elections. The human rights organization demands the government guarantee fundamental freedoms to ensure the legitimacy of the vote scheduled for 22 December 2026.

Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International's Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, stated the group's position. He emphasized that the legitimacy of an election depends on more than just its occurrence. It requires that people can exercise their rights freely, safely, and equally.

A documented history of repression

Amnesty International and other organizations have documented years of repressive tactics by South Sudanese authorities. These tactics are designed to silence dissent, detain critics, and restrict freedom of expression and the right to protest. The organization warns that without a change in this environment, the upcoming elections will lack credibility.

"At this pivotal moment, we call on the South Sudanese authorities to immediately guarantee the rights to freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly," said Tigere Chagutah. The call also includes ending the intimidation of journalists, civil society actors, and political opponents.

Legal changes concentrate power

The warning follows significant legal and political changes in Juba. On 21 September 2026, President Salva Kiir Mayardit signed The National Elections Act, 2012 (Amendment) Bill, 2026 into law. This legislation allows him to remain in office with full constitutional powers throughout the electoral period. It also authorized the dissolution of the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity.

Earlier, in July 2026, President Kiir signed amendments to the 2018 peace agreement. These changes removed critical electoral preconditions. Key deferred processes now include a national population and housing census and the adoption of a permanent constitution. Both are now scheduled to occur after the elections, raising concerns about the vote's procedural foundation.

International warnings of conflict risk

The United Nations has echoed concerns about the potential for violence. In August 2026, the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan issued a warning. It stated that elections conducted without adequate safeguards could fuel renewed conflict. The commission also warned of an increased risk of serious human rights violations and atrocity crimes.

Amnesty International's statement directly links the protection of civic space to the prevention of such outcomes. The organization argues that creating conditions for free participation is a fundamental human rights issue and a prerequisite for sustainable peace. The call is for authorities to ensure a conducive environment exists for people to vote and stand in elections, free from discrimination and arbitrary restrictions.

The organization's final demand is for South Sudanese authorities to create conditions that enable all citizens to participate in public affairs freely and without fear.