Mr. Edmund Yakani

CEPO’s Edmund Yakani Raises Concerns Over Parliamentary Amendments to Peace Agreement Ahead of 2026 Elections Juba, South Sudan – The Executive Director of Community Empowerment for Progress Organization, Edmund Yakani, has expressed concern over Parliament’s decision to amend key provisions of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement in a move aimed at paving the way for the country’s planned December 2026 general elections. On Wednesday, lawmakers approved controversial amendments to the peace agreement, removing two major pre-election requirements: the conduct of a national population census and the adoption of a permanent constitution before elections are held. The amendments were passed despite strong objections from opposition lawmakers, who argued that eliminating these provisions undermines the spirit and implementation of the revitalized peace agreement. Critics warn that the changes could weaken public confidence in the electoral process and jeopardize the credibility of the country’s first elections since independence. Reacting to the parliamentary decision, Yakani said the amendments raise serious concerns about adherence to the peace agreement and the broader democratic transition. He stressed that any changes to the agreement should be made through broad political consensus rather than unilateral legislative action. Yakani urged political leaders and stakeholders to prioritize dialogue, transparency, and full implementation of the peace agreement to ensure that the planned December 2026 elections are peaceful, inclusive, and credible. The parliamentary approval comes as South Sudan intensifies preparations for the December 2026 elections, amid ongoing debates over security arrangements, political freedoms, electoral readiness, and the implementation of outstanding provisions of the Revitalized Peace Agreement.