Opposition opposes electoral roadmap in South Sudan.

On November 18, a coalition of 12 opposition parties in South Sudan gathered to present their views on the roadmap for the first elections, which have long been overdue.

The opposition is calling on South Sudanese President Salva Kiir (pictured) to adhere to the election schedule after repeated delays. (Source: AFP/Getty Images)

Specifically, they marched in the capital Juba so they could participate in the first national elections since South Sudan gained independence in 2011 without hindrance.

Two years after becoming the world's newest nation, South Sudan descended into a civil war that killed 400,000 people, before reaching a peace agreement that led to the establishment of a power-sharing government in early 2020.

However, many key milestones of that agreement have been missed, while crucial conditions paving the way for free and fair elections, including the adoption of a constitution, have yet to be met.

President Salva Kiir, the sole leader of South Sudan since the country gained independence, has announced that elections will be held in 2024 – nine years later than originally planned.

However, opposition figures at the rally said more time was needed for preparation. The head of the Communist Party of South Sudan, Joseph Wol Modesto, said at the rally: “There is not enough time left for the 2024 elections.”

The politician added: "The dangers of holding elections without establishing the necessary conditions (on the ground) are that it will lead to war in the country."

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/phe-doi-lap-phan-doi-lo-trinh-bau-cu-o-nam-sudan-250601.html