By Paschal Norbert
JUBA, AUGUST 9, 2024 (CISA) – In a recent exclusive interview with Catholic Radio Network, the outgoing Apostolic Nuncio to South Sudan, Most Rev Hubertus Maria van Megen, has expressed significant doubts about the feasibility of the upcoming General Elections scheduled for December 2024.
The papal diplomat who was holding the same portfolio as nuncio to both South Sudan and Kenya, and now only represents the Holy See in the latter, on August 7, 2024, reflected deep concerns over the limited timeframe and numerous challenges facing the country.
Archbishop van Megen voiced disbelief that the elections would proceed as planned, citing several critical issues: “Let me, first of all, say this very frankly: I find it hard to understand how you are going to organize elections in December while we are now at the beginning of August and hardly anything has happened yet. How is that exactly going to work? I find that hard to believe. Even in a developed country, that would be difficult to pull off.”
He further explained that South Sudan, grappling with severe economic constraints due to the shutdown of its oil refinery, is ill-equipped to handle the financial burden of conducting a free and fair election.
“The election is one of the most expensive exercises a country like South Sudan can hardly afford, especially given the current economic crisis,” he explained.
The nuncio also highlighted other significant obstacles to the electoral process, including a lack of political space, ongoing insecurity, and insufficient civic education.
“Besides the economic crisis, there are many other issues. The country lacks essential features for elections, such as political space, security, and civic education,” stated Archbishop van Megen.
In his critique, he raised questions about the credibility and transparency of the electoral process: “There are many political questions that one would have to ask, especially regarding the credibility, fairness, and transparency of the election if it is to be conducted as planned on December 22, 2024. If you organize these elections, is it fair enough? Are they going to be fair and transparent? Who is going to participate in this election? Who will come to the voting stations? Who is going to vote there? Is that one real representation at that point? So these are all questions one would have to ask.”
The South Sudan Electoral Commission has confirmed that the elections are scheduled for December 22, 2024, but given the Nuncio’s concerns, the process leading up to the election remains fraught with uncertainties.
