Kiir Hosts Year-End State Dinner, Calls for Peace Ahead of 2026 Elections
JUBA, December 31, 2025 — A Gathering for National Unity
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JUBA, December 31, 2025 — A Gathering for National Unity
President Salva Kiir Mayardit hosted a significant year-end state dinner on Wednesday, uniting senior government officials, diplomats, religious leaders, and civil society representatives. The event served as a demonstration of national solidarity as South Sudan sets its sights on the scheduled elections in December 2026.
President Kiir’s Call for Peace and Reconciliation
In his keynote address, President Kiir emphasized the importance of rejecting violence and championing reconciliation among the people of South Sudan. “We conclude the year 2025. I extend my New Year’s wishes to you and your families,” Kiir remarked, urging citizens to “take a new direction by rejecting violence and embracing peace and unity over division.” The president described unity as essential for the future of the country, highlighting the role of every citizen in fostering peace.
Highlighting the 2026 Elections as a Historic Opportunity
President Kiir underscored the significance of the upcoming national polls, describing 2026 as a “historic year” for South Sudan. He called on all signatories to the peace agreement to prioritize the electoral process, stressing that “we must give our people the choice of electing their leaders.” The elections are widely viewed as a critical milestone in realizing the peace and establishing a foundation for democratic governance.
Presidential Pardons as a Step Toward National Healing
As a tangible gesture toward national healing and reconciliation, President Kiir announced the pardon of 97 individuals convicted of various offenses. He cited his constitutional authority under Article 101(8) of the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan, 2011 (as amended), emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and societal reintegration as the country moves forward.
Vice President Igga’s Commendation and Optimism
Dr. James Wani Igga, Vice President for the Economic Cluster, praised the resilience of South Sudanese citizens, who have continued to persevere amid ongoing economic and security challenges. He acknowledged the contributions of security forces in maintaining stability, particularly in the capital, and expressed optimism for the year ahead. “With unity, discipline, and hard work from all of us, the socio-economic situation of our country will improve,” Dr. Igga stated.
Context: South Sudan’s Journey Toward Peace and Democracy
Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has faced persistent internal conflict, political tensions, and humanitarian crises, despite the signing of the 2018 peace agreement. The upcoming 2026 elections represent a pivotal opportunity to consolidate peace, strengthen democratic institutions, and chart a new path forward for the nation.
The year-end state dinner hosted by President Kiir highlighted the country’s aspirations for unity and peace ahead of the 2026 elections. With renewed calls for reconciliation, presidential pardons, and an emphasis on democratic participation, South Sudan stands at a crossroads, determined to build a more peaceful and inclusive future.
U.S. Urges South Sudan to Prioritize Oil Revenues for Salaries and Essential Services
American Embassy Calls for Responsible Fiscal Management and Governance Reforms in 2026
JUBA, December 31, 2025 — United States Calls for Accountability in South Sudan’s Oil Revenue Spending
The United States has issued a renewed appeal to South Sudan’s government, calling on its leaders to ensure that the nation’s oil revenues are allocated towards paying civil servants, security forces, and providing essential public services in the coming year. In a New Year’s statement released on Wednesday, the U.S. Embassy in Juba emphasized the importance of responsible fiscal stewardship, urging that South Sudan’s considerable oil resources be used “for public good, including payment of salaries for civil servants, soldiers, and police, as well as for health, education, and other basic services.”
The embassy’s message further stressed the need for peaceful dialogue, reconciliation, and improved governance. The statement urged South Sudan’s leadership to create the necessary conditions for the nation to shift from dependence on foreign aid to becoming a more attractive destination for investment and economic growth. This call comes at a critical time for South Sudan, which continues to face challenges related to ongoing conflict, economic instability, and repeated humanitarian emergencies.
Persistent Challenges Despite Abundant Oil Reserves
Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has struggled to convert its substantial oil reserves—among the largest in sub-Saharan Africa—into tangible benefits for its citizens. The government has been the subject of persistent criticism regarding the management of public funds and oil revenues. Reports indicate that many civil servants and members of the security forces have gone months without receiving their salaries. Professionals such as teachers and doctors, whose monthly earnings range from $10 to $50, have also faced lengthy delays in compensation, exacerbating the country’s already precarious humanitarian situation.
U.S. Remains a Key Development Partner
The United States continues to be one of South Sudan’s largest humanitarian and development partners, offering substantial support while consistently advocating for governance reforms and greater transparency in fiscal practices. Although the embassy’s New Year statement did not specify detailed policy measures, it presented its recommendations as an aspiration for the South Sudanese people as the nation enters 2026.
As South Sudan navigates the complexities of post-independence nation-building, the call from Washington underscores the international community’s expectation for the country’s leaders to foster accountability, promote peace, and ensure that national resources directly benefit the population. The coming year will be a critical test of South Sudan’s ability to respond to these challenges and seize opportunities for genuine progress and reform.
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WARRAP, South Sudan — January 2, 2026.The recent tragic events in Twic County, in which two people lost their lives during an inter‑clan confrontation, have reignited longstanding concerns about how communities in South Sudan manage disputes over land, identity, and tradition. Yet, while the incident highlights persistent tensions, it also underscores a broader, often overlooked truth: peaceful alternatives exist, and communities across the country have successfully used them to resolve conflicts without bloodshed.