05/08/2026
Speech by the Representative of the Red Army Foundation at the Launch of the National Elections Commission (NEC) in Jonglei State
Honourable Chairperson of the National Elections Commission, Honourable Government Officials, Development Partners, Representatives of Civil Society Organizations, Members of the Media, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen:
Good afternoon.
On behalf of the Chairperson and members of the Red Army Foundation, and on my own behalf, I am deeply honoured to join you today as we witness the launch of the National Elections Commission (NEC). I extend our sincere congratulations to the Commission and wish it every success in fulfilling its important constitutional mandate.
Today marks more than the establishment of an institution. It represents our collective commitment to strengthening democracy, promoting national unity, and ensuring that every eligible citizen has the opportunity to participate in shaping the future of our country through peaceful, free, fair, transparent, and credible elections.
As the Red Army Foundation, we believe that civic education is the cornerstone of a successful electoral process. An informed citizen is an empowered citizen. Civic education enables people to understand their constitutional rights and responsibilities, appreciate the importance of participating peacefully in elections, and make informed choices based on policies, development priorities, and the common good rather than misinformation, fear, or division.
The members of the Red Army Foundation express their sincere appreciation to His Excellency General Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan, for his commitment to advancing democratic governance and for supporting the country's electoral process. We also call upon all political parties, candidates, supporters, and citizens to participate peacefully and responsibly in the elections for the betterment, unity, and progress of our nation.
We encourage the National Elections Commission to work closely with civil society organizations, community leaders, youth groups, women's organizations, faith-based institutions, traditional leaders, and the media to ensure that civic and voter education reaches every citizen, including those living in remote and underserved communities.
Young people, in particular, have a vital role to play in the democratic process. They are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also responsible citizens of today. We encourage our youth to become ambassadors of peace, reject violence, hate speech, and all forms of political intimidation, and contribute positively to building a democratic society founded on dialogue, tolerance, mutual respect, and national unity.
Peaceful elections are the responsibility of every citizen. Political leaders, candidates, political parties, supporters, security institutions, civil society organizations, religious leaders, and citizens all have a shared duty to preserve peace before, during, and after the elections. Differences in political opinion should never become a cause for conflict. Instead, our diversity should be celebrated as a source of strength that enriches our democracy.
Transparency and accountability are equally essential. Public confidence in the electoral process depends on fairness, impartiality, professionalism, and openness at every stage—from voter registration and voter education to polling, vote counting, and the announcement of election results. We encourage the National Elections Commission to continue engaging openly with all stakeholders and to uphold the highest standards of integrity throughout the electoral process.
As the Red Army Foundation, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to supporting civic education, peacebuilding initiatives, youth empowerment, and community awareness campaigns that promote democratic values, responsible citizenship, and national cohesion. We stand ready to collaborate with the National Elections Commission and all partners in advancing these shared objectives.
As we prepare for the forthcoming elections, let us work together in the spirit of patriotism and unity to ensure that they are peaceful, inclusive, transparent, credible, and accepted by all. By doing so, we will strengthen public confidence in our democratic institutions, safeguard peace and stability, and build a more united, democratic, and prosperous South Sudan for present and future generations.
In conclusion, let us all remain committed to peace, national unity, and democratic principles. Together, we can ensure that the forthcoming elections reflect the will of the people and contribute to lasting peace, stability, and sustainable development in our beloved Republic of South Sudan.
Thank you for your kind attention.
May God bless the National Elections Commission.
May God bless the Republic of South Sudan.
Cde. Daniel Anyieth Makuei (lGun-Jamus Anyieth Makuei)
Representative, Red Army Foundation
Jonglei State – Bor
5 July 2026.
