Political Scientist: Funding delay beyond June will make elections impossible

A political scientist warned that the 2026 elections will not be possible if the government fails to release funds to electoral institutions within the next two months.

Abraham Kuol Nyoun, a professor of political science at the University of Juba, stated that the National Elections Commission and the Political Parties Council require funding by June 2026. This timeline is necessary to initiate voter registration, civic education, and party registration.

Kuol noted that these institutions must complete specific preparations before the conduct of the vote. He identified the immediate release of resources as the primary indicator of the government’s commitment to the electoral process.

“If the government is serious, step number one is to fund election institutions immediately, in the next two months,” Kuol stated. “There are preparations that these institutions must do before we talk about elections.”

In addition to funding, Kuol emphasized the need for a stable political environment. He called for an end to hostilities and the release of political detainees to allow for credible campaigns.

He suggested the government reactivate the Tumaini Initiative in Kenya to integrate all political actors and armed groups into the peace process. According to Kuol, the return of these groups to the country is a requirement for the elections to occur.

The warnings follow recent statements from government spokesperson Ateny Wek Ateny, who indicated that the government has secured the funds necessary to finance the process. The elections remain scheduled for December 2026.