South Sudan Highlights Diplomatic Engagements and Electoral Preparations
Credit: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
South Sudan has highlighted recent diplomatic engagements, regional cooperation and progress toward the country’s planned national elections in its weekly foreign affairs briefing covering Aug. 29 to Sept. 4, 2026.
The briefing, presented by Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson Amb. Apuk Ayuel Mayen, outlined President Salva Kiir Mayardit’s diplomatic engagements, South Sudan’s participation in a high-level African Union meeting in Angola, bilateral discussions with Egypt and engagements with the United Nations and other international partners.
On Sept. 3, President Kiir bid farewell to Paul Tholen, the outgoing ambassador of the Netherlands to South Sudan, following the completion of his diplomatic tour in the country.
The same week, Senior Presidential Envoy on Special Programmes Adut Salva Kiir Mayardit led South Sudan’s delegation to the African Union Extraordinary Session on Conflict Prevention and Resolution in Africa in Luanda, Angola, representing President Kiir.
Adut delivered a special message from President Kiir to Angolan President João Lourenço, reaffirming South Sudan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing peace, stability and development in the region.
The delegation also held bilateral discussions with representatives from Angola, Kenya, Morocco, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and the African Union Commission.
Foreign Affairs Minister Amb. Dr. James Pitia Morgan, who participated in the AU session, emphasized South Sudan’s position that conflicts on the continent should be addressed through African-led and nationally owned initiatives.
South Sudan also continued efforts to strengthen its bilateral relations with Egypt. On Sept. 4, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Amb. Akuei Bona Malwal received Egyptian Ambassador Hazem Mamdouh Fawzy for a courtesy visit.
The two officials discussed ways to reinforce the longstanding relations between South Sudan and Egypt and expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry also engaged with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan and other accredited international organizations during a meeting on Sept. 3.
Minister Morgan used the meeting to stress the importance of observing established diplomatic procedures and using appropriate channels when engaging with the South Sudanese government. He also emphasized respect for the country’s sovereignty and institutional frameworks while reaffirming the government’s commitment to constructive cooperation with international partners.
On the domestic political front, President Kiir on Sept. 2 assented to Constitutional Amendment No. 13, 2026, following its passage by the Transitional National Legislative Assembly.
The amendment addresses legal matters related to the conduct of the country’s upcoming national elections, which remain scheduled for Dec. 22, 2026.
Government institutions responsible for the electoral process are continuing preparations as South Sudan works to advance the legal and institutional framework required for the planned elections.
