South Sudan’s National Elections Commission (NEC), on Monday, commenced a nationwide voter and civic education campaign to prepare citizens for the general elections scheduled for December 22.

The exercise is aimed at ensuring citizens are informed about the electoral process ahead of the country’s first national elections since independence in 2011.

The NEC chairperson, Abednego Akok Kacuol, said the campaign would educate eligible voters on registration procedures, voting processes and their civic rights, while encouraging wider participation.

“The campaign is strictly non-partisan and designed to ensure that all eligible citizens understand the process and can participate effectively,” M Akok said during the launch in Juba.

He said the commission would prioritise reaching vulnerable groups, including women, youths, persons living with disabilities and internally displaced persons, who often encounter challenges in accessing electoral services.

Vice President, James Igga, called on citizens to register and take part in the elections peacefully, noting that an accurate voter register is key to credible and transparent polls.

The NEC said the campaign would be conducted across the country through partnerships with civil society organisations, media outlets, religious groups, political parties and community leaders.

The initiative is expected to boost public awareness and encourage broad participation as South Sudan prepares for the December elections.

 (Xinhua/NAN)