JUBA — President Salva Kiir has called on South Sudanese to embrace peace, unity and non-violence as the country embraces the New Year amid political uncertainty and rising violence.
Speaking during the End-of-Year State Dinner on Wednesday, Kiir reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to stability and a democratic transition ahead of the 2026 general elections.
He urged citizens to reject violence in all its forms, stressing that peace and unity remain the cornerstone for a brighter and more inclusive future for South Sudan.
“The New Year should be a time for renewed commitment to peace, reconciliation and national unity,” President Kiir said. “Our diversity must be our strength, and only through peaceful coexistence can we build the nation we all desire.”
The dinner brought together senior government officials, representatives of civil society organizations, members of the business community, religious leaders, and the diplomatic corps, reflecting broad national and international partnership.
President Kiir further reaffirmed the government’s determination to hold general elections in December 2026. He emphasized the need to provide adequate resources to the National Elections Commission to ensure a credible, free and fair electoral process.
In what his office termed a gesture of reconciliation and national healing, the President announced the release of 97 inmates from prisons across the country, describing the move as part of broader efforts to promote forgiveness and social harmony.