Resolve Abyei Issue before 2026 elections-Yakani
By Aguok Chok
Civil society activist Edmund Yakani has called for the resolution of the issues on Abyei, an oil-rich region claimed by both Sudan and South Sudan. The activist expressed deep concern about the lack of progress in resolving the region’s status, as the country looks ahead to the 2026 general elections.
“Abyei remains one of our administrative areas. The failure to address Abyei’s status is not only a political challenge but also a threat to the region’s participation in the upcoming elections,” Yakani said.
In 2013, the Ngok Dinka community in Abyei held a referendum and overwhelmingly voted to join South Sudan. However, this vote has not been recognized by either Sudan or South Sudan, and the region’s final status remains unresolved. The continued uncertainty over Abyei’s future has sparked concerns about its role in South Sudan’s political landscape, particularly in light of the 2026 elections.
Yakani called on the South Sudanese government to provide clarity on the status of Abyei and to publicly explain why the issue was removed from the political agenda. “The government must address why the Abyei issue was sidelined. It is critical for the people of Abyei to know where they stand before the general elections,” he urged.
In addition to his concerns about Abyei, Yakani expressed cautious optimism on the outcomes of the eighth Governors’ Forum, commending delegates for calling on the Ministry of Finance and Planning to settle outstanding arrears owed to civil servants and organized forces.
“I am impressed by the concrete recommendations made by the Governors’ Forum, particularly the call for better coordination between state and national governments on revenue matters,” Yakani said. He highlighted the importance of improving the management of finances at both the national and state levels, noting that better coordination would help resolve the longstanding issue of delayed salaries for civil servants. These financial delays have been a source of frustration for many South Sudanese citizens, particularly those working in government and security sectors.
Yakani also praised the forum for focusing on conflict resolution and democratic transformation. The Governors’ Forum acknowledged that the country’s journey toward lasting peace and stability is still ongoing, and they emphasized the need for further efforts to address internal conflicts. Yakani stressed that such resolutions could have a positive impact on the nation’s future, provided they are implemented effectively.
“Conflict resolution and democratic transformation must remain at the forefront of our government’s priorities,” Yakani noted. “Only through sustained efforts in these areas will South Sudan be able to overcome the challenges of instability and begin its long-term development journey.”
As South Sudan moves closer to the 2026 elections, the questions surrounding Abyei’s future and the broader issues of governance remain pivotal. Yakani’s call for greater transparency and accountability resonates strongly as the country seeks to resolve its challenges and chart a path toward a more stable and prosperous future.
