Activist Nyakuma Peter Gatkuoth declare Presidential bid in South Sudan

South Sudanese peacebuilding activist Nyakuma Peter Gatkuoth, founder and director of Together South Sudan, has declared her intention to contest the presidency as an independent candidate in the December 22, 2026 elections, becoming the first woman to announce a presidential bid

In an interview with Eye Radio on Saturday, Nyakuma acknowledged the presidential age requirement but argued that younger leaders should step forward, saying the older generation had failed to address the country’s challenges.

She added that she intended to run independently and challenge other prospective candidates in the race.

“Indeed, it is not AI generated. It is something I’ve thought of. We have never heard election of presidency. So, this year I’ve decided that I will go for the presidency challenge and I’m going for the president of South Sudan,” she said.

“Well, I understand that the age limit is one of the challenges, but I’m tackling the age because the elders have failed us. So, we the young, even if we have not reached the age limit, we have to deliver what we know that our elders cannot. So, I want to change the narrative,” she added.

Nyakuma said insecurity, poor road connectivity and the prolonged economic crisis were among the reasons behind her decision to contest for the presidency.

She also cited the need to improve public services, including education and healthcare, alongside women’s and youth empowerment and good governance.

Nyakuma is the founder and director of Together South Sudan, an organisation focused on intercommunal reconciliation and trauma healing. She has also worked in protection, with a focus on gender-based violence prevention and support for vulnerable people.

“I have seen a lot of challenges, especially the insecurity in our country, one of the priorities that is making me stand. And the second thing is our road connectivity in all our states. And the third is the economic crisis that we are living in for many years now,” she said.

“And again, is delivering the services, for instance, quality education, health care, and also empowering women and youth in our communities, and also to build good governance. So those are actually my inspiration and objectives to contest for presidency of South Sudan,” she added.

Her declaration adds to the list of political figures expressing interest in the December presidential election.

Other declared candidates named in the report include President Salva Kiir Mayardit, Dr. Issa Muzamil, Kornelio Kon Ngu and Tijwog Agwet.

Nyakuma’s eligibility will depend on meeting the constitutional and electoral requirements for presidential candidates.