South Sudan, the world’s youngest country, on Saturday postponed its first national elections from December to February 2027 amid growing ethnic and political tensions.
The legislative and presidential elections had been scheduled for December 22, 2026, after being delayed several times. The United Nations had warned that holding the vote could trigger widespread conflict.
The electoral commission issued a revised calendar on social media, setting February 11, 2027, as the new voting date, with results expected to be announced four days later.
The commission’s Secretary-General, Ahon Malou Lueth, confirmed the change to AFP but declined to give a reason or provide further details.
Forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and supporters of detained former Vice-President Riek Machar have been involved in escalating and deadly confrontations in recent months.
Other ethnic tensions and cattle-rustling battles have also complicated the situation in one of the world’s poorest countries.
Related News
This post was originally published on this site.
