JUBA / ADDIS ABABA — An African Union C5 statement calls for the release of Dr. Riek Machar in the interest of national cohesion, placing the fate of the opposition leader at the center of regional efforts to stabilize South Sudan ahead of general elections set for December 22, 2026.
The official declaration, issued after a virtual summit chaired by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, emphasizes that political unity and an open civic space are vital to ensure a credible transition. C5 leaders urged authorities in Juba to consider releasing all political detainees, specifically highlighting Machar, to foster reconciliation and build trust among key stakeholders before citizens head to the polls.
Beyond the call to release political figures, the summit outlined immediate requirements for the electoral roadmap. Regional heads of state urged the government of South Sudan to provide adequate and timely funding for key oversight bodies, including the National Elections Commission, the National Constitutional Review Commission, and the Political Parties Council. They also welcomed pledges of technical assistance from member countries like Nigeria, which offered support for election security training, voter education, and voter registration frameworks for refugees and displaced persons.
The C5 declaration further condemned ongoing security threats in the country, specifically highlighting a recent deadly ambush on a United Nations patrol in Jonglei State that resulted in the deaths of three Ethiopian peacekeepers. Regional leaders demanded a thorough investigation by South Sudanese authorities and called on all signatories to uphold the permanent ceasefire. To maintain momentum, the summit directed the setup of a joint AU-IGAD-UN Taskforce to monitor progress, conduct preventive diplomacy, and ensure all political factions participate in an inclusive national dialogue without pre-conditions.
An African Union C5 statement calls for the release of Dr. Riek Machar in the interest of national cohesion
