South Sudan President Salva Kiir has opened an inter-party political dialogue in the capital, Juba, as the country prepares for general elections scheduled for December 22.
The talks began days after Kiir dissolved the transitional unity government, bringing renewed focus to the country’s political transition and preparations for its first national elections since gaining independence in 2011.
Kiir said the dialogue was intended to help political parties reach agreement on a path towards peaceful and credible elections.
He, however, warned that the process should not be used to delay the elections or alter the existing electoral roadmap.
The dialogue is already facing opposition from major political groups, including those aligned with former First Vice President Riek Machar.
Machar was removed from the transitional government after Kiir dissolved the administration on September 22.
Opposition groups have rejected the government’s approach, raising questions over the political process and preparations for the December polls.
Critics have also expressed doubts about whether credible elections can be organised within three months, citing concerns over security, political space and the absence of a permanent constitution.
The planned elections would be a significant milestone for South Sudan, which became independent in 2011 but has faced years of political instability and conflict.
For Kiir’s administration, however, the transition is drawing to a close, with the government maintaining that the country should proceed towards the December 22 elections.
