JUBA, South Sudan (Eye Radio) – Representatives from registered political parties have gathered in Juba for a four-day intensive training focused on democracy, governance, and election management as South Sudan moves toward a critical electoral period.
The workshop, which runs from 27 to 30 January 2026, utilizes the globally acclaimed BRIDGE (Building Resources in Democracy, Governance, and Elections) curriculum.
BRIDGE is recognized as the world’s most comprehensive election curriculum. Unlike traditional lectures, it emphasizes interactive, participatory learning to help political leaders understand the “rules of the game.”
The current module focuses specifically on Political Parties and Candidates, covering essential legal frameworks, boundary delimitation (voter delimitation), and the procedures for candidate registration.
Mr. Darren S. Nance, Chief Principal Electoral Affairs Officer at UNMISS, noted that while the workshop was planned months ago, its timing is perfect given the current political climate. To ensure no one is left behind, the training has been split into two groups to accommodate all signatories of the peace agreement.
“This program is aimed at strengthening democratic processes themselves,” Mr. Nance said, adding that the workshops also extend to civil society, the media, and security focal points to ensure a coordinated national effort.
Eng. James Akol Zakayo, Chairperson of the Political Parties Council, urged the 30 participants—all leadership-level representatives—to act as “trainers of trainers.”
“This training is very important for the candidates to carry the same information they have learned… and take it to their institutions,” Eng. Akol stated. He also issued a strong call for gender balance, noting that while the current group is influential, future sessions must see increased representation of women.
Professor Abednego Akok Kacuol, Chairperson of the NEC, closed the opening session with a challenge to the parties: transition from the classroom to the field. He emphasized that the knowledge gained should be used to prepare the South Sudanese public for a peaceful vote.
“It is your responsibility to go to the public and build a culture of peace. Let us reject violence,” Professor Akok urged. He reaffirmed that the NEC stands ready to conduct the electoral process, provided the political parties are equally prepared to engage the public with integrity.
The high-level training is organised by the National Elections Commission (NEC) in partnership with the UNMISS Political Affairs Division and the Political Parties Council (PPC). The training aims to demystify the complexities of the electoral cycle.