South Sudan Eagles Media

To be South Sudan’s most trusted voice — a home for truth, inspiration, and stories that build peace and connect our people everywhere.

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

What Are the Main Obstacles Preventing South Sudan from Holding Elections?

By Madit Majak | Political Analyst, South Sudan Eagle Media

South Sudan’s journey toward democratic elections has faced repeated delays since the country gained independence in 2011. While elections are widely viewed as an essential step toward establishing a legitimate and accountable government, numerous challenges continue to prevent the country from conducting free, fair, and credible polls. The question is no longer whether South Sudan needs elections, but whether the necessary conditions exist to make them successful.

One of the biggest obstacles is the incomplete implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. The agreement was designed to guide the country from conflict to peace and eventually to democratic governance. However, many key provisions, including security arrangements, constitutional reforms, and the unification of armed forces, remain largely unfinished. Without full implementation, elections risk becoming a source of renewed political tension rather than a solution.

Security concerns also remain a serious challenge. Many parts of the country continue to experience communal violence, armed conflicts, and insecurity. Citizens living in conflict-affected areas may be unable to register, campaign, or vote freely. Elections conducted in an environment of fear and instability cannot truly reflect the will of the people.

Another major obstacle is the lack of adequate electoral preparations. Organizing elections requires voter registration, constituency demarcation, civic education, electoral materials, and trained election officials. South Sudan still faces significant logistical and institutional challenges that could undermine the credibility of the electoral process if not addressed in time.

The absence of a permanent constitution further complicates matters. A constitution serves as the foundation for democratic governance and clarifies the powers and responsibilities of political institutions. Holding elections before completing the constitutional-making process may leave critical legal and political questions unresolved.

Political trust among leaders is another issue. Deep divisions and mutual suspicion among political parties and factions continue to hinder consensus on the electoral roadmap. Without political commitment and confidence-building measures, disagreements over election outcomes could trigger instability rather than strengthen democracy.

Economic hardship also plays a role. South Sudan faces severe financial constraints, making it difficult to fund electoral activities, support institutions, and provide necessary services. Economic struggles can reduce public confidence in the political process and create conditions for political manipulation.

Furthermore, civic and political freedoms remain concerns. A credible election requires freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, an independent media, and equal political participation. Citizens and political actors must feel safe to express their views, organize campaigns, and engage in public debate without intimidation.

In conclusion, South Sudan’s election challenges are not caused by a single factor but by a combination of political, security, legal, and economic obstacles. Elections should not merely be viewed as a date on the calendar but as the culmination of a genuine democratic transition. The country’s leaders, regional partners, and international community must work together to address these challenges and create conditions that allow South Sudanese citizens to participate in a peaceful, credible, and inclusive electoral process. Only then can elections contribute meaningfully to lasting peace, stability, and democratic governance.

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

CEPO Urges RTGoNU and AU Commission to Implement Resolution 6 on South Sudan Elections Roadmap

Juba, South Sudan – Mr. Edmund Yakani has strongly called upon the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) and the African Union Commission to urgently implement Resolution 6 on the development of an elections roadmap under the AU Commission-led process, as outlined in the recent AU C-5 Plus Declaration of February 15, 2026.

Yakani stated that South Sudan is currently facing a serious political stalemate in its transition from violence to sustainable peace. He emphasized that the AU Commission’s role in developing an elections roadmap offers a structured political approach aimed at enhancing consultative and inclusive political dialogue among all stakeholders.

According to Yakani, discussions on elections should address critical issues, including security arrangements, the creation of an open civic and political space, adequate national funding, and securing the political commitment necessary to conduct credible, free, fair, and peaceful elections.

He stressed that the AU Commission should expedite the implementation of Resolution 6, arguing that it could create a pathway for meaningful and inclusive political dialogue involving both signatories and non-signatories to the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).

“The recent setbacks and complications surrounding the implementation of transitional tasks have made the path toward a genuine transition more difficult and confusing,” Yakani said.

He added that a comprehensive and inclusive electoral roadmap could help restore confidence among political actors and citizens, while advancing South Sudan’s journey toward lasting peace, democratic governance, and political stability.

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO)

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

Sheikh and Islamic Preacher Ayuel Kur Ayuel have apologized and retracted statements he made during a sermon at market in Renk last week.
He had spoken about churches and their connection to the deteriorating security situation in Renk, accusing Christians of polytheism. He earlier asserted that monotheism is the solution to restoring security and achieving peace.
Ayuel Kur nicknames himself as "Abu al-Sheikhayn Ayuel Kur."
However, it is unclear whether he was released after being arrested yesterday by security authorities for these statements, or if he recorded the video while in detention in Renk.

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

Authorities in Renk Arrests A Muslim Preacher and Shiek for Hate Speech

Security authorities in Renk County of Upper Nile State, have arrested an Islamic preacher, Ayuel Kur, and another sheikh, accusing them of being among the "misleading imams" who incite division among citizens, spread hate speech, and promote violence and social unrest in Renk.

The authorities stated that the two individuals are under investigation for activities allegedly aimed at undermining social cohesion and peaceful coexistence within the community.

On Tuesday, a video showing Ayuel Kur preaching in Renk market, saying that the increase in number of churches in Renk is causing insecurity in the town, was widely circulated on social media platforms; and condemned by many citizens as hate speech and division on religious basis.

Ayuel Kur stated that there is no security and peace except through monotheism (Islamic teachings of worshipping one God) accusing non-muslims of polytheism (worshipping God and idles) another Islamic concept.

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

11 Major Opposition Parties Yet to Register for December 2026 Elections

JUBA, South Sudan – Eleven major opposition political parties that have consistently criticized and challenged the government are yet to complete their registration with the Political Parties Council (PPC) ahead of the December 2026 General Elections.

The development comes as the PPC has maintained June 30, 2026, as the final deadline for political parties seeking to participate in the upcoming elections. The Council has warned that any political entity that fails to complete registration by the deadline will not be eligible to contest the polls. (https://t.co/KCLJHYhZzS)

The opposition parties that have not yet registered include:

1. The Real SPLM, led by Pagan Amum
2. The SPLM-IO, headed by Riek Machar
3. The South Sudan United Front (SSUF), led by Paul Malong Awan
4. The South Sudan People’s Movement (SSPM), under Stephen Buay Rolnyang
5. The South Sudan Salvation Movement (SSSM), headed by Nhial Deng Nhial
6. The National Democratic Movement (NDM), led by Lam Akol
7. The National Democratic Movement–Patriotic Front (NDM-PF), headed by Emmanuel Yoanes Yor
8. The National Salvation Front (NAS), led by Thomas Cirilo
9. The United Democratic Party (UDP), under Tong Lual
10. The People’s Coalition Party (PCP), led by Abdall Deng
11. The South Sudan Democratic Front (SSDF), headed by David De Chan

Political observers say the registration process will be a key test of the readiness of opposition parties to participate in South Sudan’s first general elections since independence. With the June 30 deadline approaching, attention is now focused on whether these parties will fulfill the legal requirements in time to secure their place on the ballot.

The PPC has repeatedly stressed that the registration deadline is final and binding, urging all aspiring political parties to expedite their applications to avoid exclusion from the electoral process.

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

CEPO Condemns Renewed Military Confrontation in Jonglei State

Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), has strongly condemned the resumption of military confrontation between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the SPLA-IO in Waat and Lanike areas of Jonglei State.

Yakani described the clashes as a dangerous development that could signal a new trend of military confrontations at the onset of this year’s rainy season. He warned that continued fighting risks undermining the country’s fragile peace process, worsening humanitarian conditions, and exposing civilians to further suffering.

He called on the leadership of both parties to exercise maximum restraint, immediately cease hostilities, and resolve their differences through dialogue and existing peace mechanisms. Yakani further urged the peace monitoring bodies and regional guarantors to intervene promptly to prevent the escalation of violence and protect civilians affected by the conflict.

According to CEPO, the renewed violence threatens ongoing efforts to implement the peace agreement and could destabilize communities already facing challenges related to displacement, food insecurity, and limited access to essential services during the rainy season.

Yakani appealed to all stakeholders to prioritize peace, national unity, and the welfare of civilians over military confrontation.

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

Yakani Welcomes Kiir’s Bahr el Ghazal Tour, Calls for Expansion to Other Regions

JUBA, South Sudan – The Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organisation (CEPO), Edmond Yakani, has welcomed President Salva Kiir Mayardit’s ongoing tour of the Bahr el Ghazal region, describing it as a positive step toward strengthening direct engagement between the Head of State and the citizens.

Speaking on the significance of the presidential visit, Yakani said the tour provides an important opportunity for communities to express their concerns, aspirations, and development priorities directly to the country’s leadership.

He noted that such engagements help bridge the gap between the government and the people, while also promoting national unity and confidence in public institutions.

“The President’s visit to Bahr el Ghazal demonstrates a commitment to listening to citizens and understanding the challenges facing local communities,” Yakani said. “Direct interaction between leaders and citizens is essential for responsive governance and sustainable peace.”

The CEPO Executive Director further called on President Kiir to extend similar visits to other regions across South Sudan, including Greater Equatoria and Greater Upper Nile, to ensure that all citizens have an equal opportunity to engage with the national leadership.

Yakani emphasized that nationwide presidential outreach would strengthen social cohesion, improve public trust, and provide firsthand insight into the needs of communities across the country.

President Kiir is currently touring states within the Bahr el Ghazal region, where he has been meeting local leaders, government officials, and residents as part of efforts to assess development needs and promote peace and stability.

Observers say the tour has attracted significant public interest and has been viewed as an opportunity to address local concerns while reinforcing government presence at the grassroots level.

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

Thousands of jubilant South Sudanese citizens lined the streets of Wau and packed Wau Stadium on Friday to welcome the President of the Republic, His Excellency Salva Kiir Mayardit, during his visit to Western Bahr el Ghazal State.

Residents from across the state turned out in large numbers, waving flags, singing patriotic songs, and chanting messages of support as the President's motorcade made its way through the town and into the stadium. The atmosphere was marked by excitement, gratitude, and a strong display of national unity as citizens gathered to receive the Head of State.

The rally was organized by the Government and people of Western Bahr el Ghazal State under the leadership of Governor Hon. Major General Sheriff Daniel Sheriff. Traditional leaders, youth groups, women associations, community representatives, and citizens from across the region joined the event.

Addressing the gathering, President Kiir thanked the people of Wau for the warm reception and conveyed three key messages to the nation.
The President reaffirmed his government's commitment to the full implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, stressing that peace remains the government's highest priority.

"Despite what you hear, always remember that peace is our top priority," President Kiir told the crowd.

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

Is Oyet Nathaniel Telling the Truth About an Assassination Plot Against Dr. Riek Machar, or Is It Political Propaganda?

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

Mr. Edmund Yakani, The Executive Director of Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO).

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

#NewProfilePic

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

CEPO Condemns Deadly Violence Between Ruweng Administrative Area and Unity State

Juba, South Sudan – The Executive Director of Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), Edmund Yakani, has strongly condemned the escalating deadly attacks between the Ruweng Administrative Area and Unity State, describing the violence as unacceptable and deeply concerning.

According to CEPO, the ongoing clashes have claimed the lives of innocent civilians from both Rukona County in Unity State and the Ruweng Administrative Area. Reports indicate that more than 14 people have been killed in parts of Rukona County, while over 10 others have lost their lives in the Ruweng Administrative Area as a result of the recent violence.

CEPO strongly condemned the suspected armed youth involved in the attacks from both Unity State and the Ruweng Administrative Area, calling on local communities to refrain from violence and embrace peaceful dialogue as a means of resolving disputes.

The civil society organization expressed concern that the continued bloodshed could further undermine peace, security, and social cohesion in the affected areas. It urged all parties involved to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could lead to further loss of life and destruction of property.

Mr. Yakani called on the national government to take immediate measures to contain the situation and prevent further escalation. He appealed to President Salva Kiir Mayardit to intervene decisively and facilitate efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability between Unity State and the Ruweng Administrative Area.

CEPO also warned that it is closely monitoring the conduct and responses of political and community leaders from both Unity State and the Ruweng Administrative Area. The organization emphasized that leaders have a responsibility to promote peace, discourage violence, and work towards reconciliation among affected communities.

The organization further urged security authorities and local leaders to cooperate in identifying those responsible for the attacks and to ensure accountability through lawful means.

As tensions remain high, CEPO reiterated its call for dialogue, restraint, and immediate government intervention to prevent further loss of innocent lives and to safeguard peace in the region.

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executuve Director of CEPO strongely urged the leadrship and members states of IGAD to hold IGAD heads and states summit on the political situation of the South Sudan.

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

The Release of Dr. Riek Machar Alone Will Not Bring Peace to South Sudan

By Madit Majak | Political Analyst, South Sudan Eagle Media

The international community, opposition groups, and various political actors continue to call for the release of Dr. Riek Machar. While these demands dominate political discussions about South Sudan, an important question must be asked: Will the release of Dr. Riek Machar bring peace between the government and opposition groups? Furthermore, will his release unite the fragmented opposition forces across the country?

My answer to both questions is simple: No.

The political crisis facing South Sudan today goes far beyond the detention or release of one political leader. Peace cannot be achieved simply by releasing Dr. Machar without addressing the underlying issues that continue to fuel conflict and instability across the country.

One of the major concerns is accountability for the Nasir incident and the subsequent violence that followed. Genuine peace requires accountability from all parties involved in actions that have contributed to insecurity and loss of life. Ignoring these issues while focusing solely on the release of one individual risks undermining efforts to establish lasting stability.

Another challenge is the growing division within the opposition itself. The opposition landscape in South Sudan is fragmented into multiple groups with different political agendas and interests. Even among factions that identify themselves as opposition forces, there is no clear unity or common vision for the country’s future. In fact, many opposition groups continue to disagree among themselves, making it difficult to present a united front.

Recent developments have also demonstrated differences within the opposition regarding regional peace initiatives. While some opposition groups support broader consultations and dialogue efforts, others remain focused primarily on the implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS). This lack of consensus highlights the deeper political divisions that cannot be resolved simply through the release of Dr. Machar.

The United States and other international partners often criticize President Salva Kiir’s government for slow implementation of the peace agreement. While there are legitimate concerns regarding delays and shortcomings in implementation, it is equally important to recognize that responsibility for the challenges facing the peace process does not rest solely with the government.

Both the government and opposition movements have at times prioritized political interests over the full implementation of the peace agreement. The R-ARCSS, signed on September 12, 2018, was intended to end years of devastating conflict and provide a roadmap toward peace, reconciliation, and democratic transition. However, political maneuvering by various actors has repeatedly slowed progress.

The security situation in Upper Nile, parts of Jonglei, and other regions remains a serious concern. Violence, military confrontations, and political tensions continue to threaten the fragile peace process. These realities demonstrate that South Sudan’s challenges are larger than any single political figure.

The international community, including the United States, the United Nations, and the African Union, should therefore place balanced pressure on all parties involved in the conflict. Lasting peace requires accountability from both government officials and opposition leaders. No side should be exempt from responsibility for actions that contribute to instability.

South Sudan deserves more than political gamesmanship. It deserves responsible leadership, accountability, and a genuine commitment to peace.

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

Political Control, Rather Than Tribalism, Constitutes the Principal Threat to South Sudan’s Stability
By Abraham Madit Majak | Political Analyst, South Sudan Eagle Media

The recent remarks by Senior Ambassador Garang Deng Aguer dismissing claims that tribalism is the primary driver behind political and military actions in South Sudan have reignited an important national discourse. At a time when political tensions are escalating and public confidence in institutions remains fragile, his statement warrants careful consideration rather than emotional reaction.

Ambassador Garang asserted that the arrests, intimidation, and political pressure currently observed in the country are not directed exclusively at a single ethnic group, but rather at individuals perceived as political threats or dissenting voices. According to his assessment, those subjected to pressure originate from diverse communities, indicating that the issue is rooted more in political control than in tribal identity.

There is considerable validity in this argument.

South Sudan’s political crisis has frequently been reduced to tribal narratives; however, the reality is substantially more complex. While ethnicity has historically influenced mobilization, alliances, and mistrust, the underlying challenge has consistently been the struggle for power, influence, and control of the state. In numerous instances, political elites have exploited tribal sentiments as instruments to consolidate their positions, suppress criticism, and manipulate public opinion.

The current danger lies in the growing tendency among citizens to interpret every political arrest, military reshuffle, or political disagreement through an ethnic lens. Such perceptions foster fear, suspicion, and division among ordinary South Sudanese citizens who continue to bear the painful memories of previous conflicts.

Nevertheless, it is equally important not to disregard the concerns of communities that genuinely perceive themselves as marginalized or targeted. In fragile societies such as South Sudan, perception itself can become politically volatile. If citizens believe that state institutions operate unfairly or selectively, even where evidence may be inconclusive, tensions can escalate rapidly.

For this reason, national leaders must exercise the utmost caution in both their actions and public statements. Transparency, justice, and equal application of the law are indispensable if the government intends to restore public confidence.

Ambassador Garang’s warning against dangerous ethnic narratives is both timely and significant. South Sudan cannot afford another cycle of political violence fueled by tribal mobilization. The country is already confronting severe economic hardship, insecurity, displacement, and delays in implementing critical provisions of the peace agreement. Transforming political disagreements into ethnic confrontations will only further weaken the fragile foundations of national unity.

The national focus should instead shift toward strengthening democratic institutions, safeguarding political freedoms, and creating space for inclusive dialogue. Citizens must be able to express criticism without fear of intimidation, and opposition voices should not automatically be regarded as enemies of the state.

Similarly, political actors must refrain from exploiting tribal identity for personal or political advantage. Leaders who manipulate ethnic sentiments for short-term gain risk undermining the country’s long-term stability and future development.

As South Sudan moves toward anticipated elections, the nation faces a defining moment. The central question is no longer whether tribalism exists—it unquestionably does. The more pressing question is whether South Sudanese leaders are prepared to rise above it and cultivate a political culture grounded in citizenship, justice, accountability, and national unity.

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

CEPO Welcomes SSOMA’s Readiness for Inclusive Political Dialogue

Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), has strongly welcomed and appreciated the official position of South Sudan Opposition Movements Alliance (SSOMA) expressing readiness for an inclusive political dialogue without preconditions.

Yakani said CEPO also welcomes SSOMA’s suggestion that any mediation or dialogue process should be conducted outside both Kenya and Uganda, stressing that the most practical option for resolving the ongoing political stalemate in South Sudan is through an inclusive political dialogue involving all stakeholders.

According to Yakani, the viability of the country conducting elections by December 2026 is becoming increasingly unrealistic as time continues to run out. He warned that preparations for the planned elections scheduled for December 22, 2026, are falling behind, raising concerns over the credibility and feasibility of the electoral process.

The CEPO Executive Director further expressed concern over the renewed military confrontations between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) in some parts of Jonglei State.

He described the clashes as disturbing and said they represent actions by individuals within the military who are obstructing genuine political transitional activities aimed at achieving peace and stability in the country.

Yakani reiterated the need for political leaders and parties to prioritize dialogue, peace, and national unity over military confrontation, warning that continued violence could further delay the country’s transition toward democratic governance and lasting peace.

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

THE NUER LEADERS REJECT REPORT OF NUER TARGETING CLAIMS

The recent statement by Nuer leaders serving within South Sudan’s transitional government rejecting reports of ethnic targeting against the Nuer community has sparked an important national discussion about peace, security, and responsible reporting in the country.

The officials strongly dismissed allegations made by some international organizations, humanitarian agencies, and foreign governments claiming that the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) are deliberately targeting Nuer civilians during ongoing military operations in parts of Upper Nile and Jonglei states.

According to the leaders, the military operations are aimed at combating armed groups and restoring stability, not targeting any ethnic community. They argued that portraying the conflict as an organized ethnic campaign against the Nuer people is misleading and risks creating unnecessary fear, division, and hostility among South Sudanese communities.

The significance of this response lies in the fact that the message comes directly from Nuer leaders themselves. They emphasized that they would never remain silent if their community was being deliberately targeted. Their position challenges growing narratives circulating internationally and on social media that frame the conflict strictly through an ethnic perspective.

South Sudan has suffered greatly from tribal divisions since the outbreak of conflict in 2013. Ethnic mistrust and political propaganda contributed heavily to violence, displacement, and national instability. As a result, many citizens believe that careless accusations and unverified reports can easily reopen old wounds and undermine fragile peace efforts.

At the same time, rejecting ethnic narratives should not mean ignoring civilian suffering or dismissing concerns about human rights abuses. Any allegations involving killings, abuses, or misconduct by armed actors must be independently investigated in a transparent and credible manner. Accountability and justice remain essential pillars for sustainable peace.

The Nuer leaders also criticized some international organizations and humanitarian agencies for publishing reports without proper verification or engagement with government institutions. They argued that balanced reporting is necessary to avoid escalating tensions and spreading misinformation that could destabilize the country further.

Equally, armed opposition groups must also take responsibility for ongoing instability in several regions. Continued mobilization of armed youth, rebellion, and violent confrontation only worsen the humanitarian situation and prolong the suffering of innocent civilians.

South Sudan’s future depends on unity, dialogue, and national reconciliation rather than tribal politics and ethnic polarization. No community should feel excluded, targeted, or marginalized. The country belongs to all South Sudanese regardless of tribe, region, or political affiliation.

The debate surrounding these reports should serve as a reminder that peace can only survive where truth, responsibility, and national unity are protected. South Sudanese leaders, media institutions, civil society organizations, and international partners all share a collective responsibility to avoid inflammatory narratives that may endanger the country’s fragile stability.

By Madit Majak
Political Analyst, South Sudan Eagle Media

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

Five Construction Workers Killed in Morobo County

The Executive Director of Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), Mr. Edmund Yakani, has strongly condemned the killing of five civil construction workers at the construction site of Kendila Bridge in Morobo County on May 27, 2026.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Yakani described the attack on the workers during the performance of their construction duties as a serious violation of international humanitarian law, stating that the act amounts to a war crime.

According to the official statement from the Commissioner of Morobo County, as well as verified local sources, forces affiliated with the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) have been accused of carrying out the killings.

CEPO called on the leadership of SPLA-IO to issue an official position regarding the incident and demanded that those responsible for the killing of the five workers be held accountable.

“Justice is required to prevail,” Yakani stressed in the statement.

The civil society organization also extended condolences to the relatives, families, and loved ones of the victims who lost their lives while working on the Kendila Bridge construction project.

The incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety of civilians and development workers operating in conflict-affected areas of South Sudan.

[South Sudan Eagles Media @ssemtv]

AU-BACKED CONSULTATIONS IN TANZANIA: A POTENTIAL TURNING POINT OR ANOTHER MISSED OPPORTUNITY FOR SOUTH SUDAN?, MAY 22, 2026 https://t.co/J4msBk4ioR