South Sudan’s Election Woes: A Discussion on How Not to Hold Elections

South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, has been plagued by political instability and violence since its independence in 2011.

The country has yet to hold a successful election, and a new report by the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung sheds light on why. The report, titled “How Not to Hold Elections in South Sudan,” highlights the many challenges facing the country as it attempts to build a stable democracy.

These challenges include ongoing conflict, lack of infrastructure, and limited resources. According to the report’s authors – Nic Cheeseman, Luka Biong, and Edmund Yakani – holding elections in South Sudan is not impossible but requires careful planning and preparation.

The report suggests that the international community can play a crucial role in supporting South Sudan’s efforts to hold free and fair elections. However, with the next election scheduled for 2023, time is running out for South Sudan to address these challenges.

The report warns that rushing into an election without addressing these issues could lead to further violence and instability. The report also explores alternative approaches to democratic governance that South Sudan could consider if elections are not feasible.

These include power-sharing agreements between different ethnic groups and decentralization of power to local communities.

As South Sudan continues its struggle toward stability and democracy, this report serves as a reminder of the difficult choices that must be made. It is critical that these choices are openly discussed and appropriate steps taken to strengthen the positives and minimize the negatives of whatever set of options are chosen.

In conclusion, while there is no easy way forward for South Sudan, this report provides valuable insights into how not to hold elections in this fragile state. It is up to both domestic leaders and international partners alike to work together toward building a stable democracy in this young nation.