South Sudan postpones first-ever national elections until February
South Sudan has postponed its first-ever national elections until February 11, 2026, marking the third delay for the vote. The decision follows the dissolution of the transitional government, raising concerns about power consolidation and potential instability.
Why it matters
The delay in the world's youngest nation highlights ongoing political fragility and the risk of renewed conflict in a region struggling with governance.
The vote, first expected in 2022, will now be held on February 11, according to the country’s election commission.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Young men and boys who fled drought in South Sudan are seen in Torit, the capital of Eastern Equatoria state, South Sudan [File: Juma Peter/AP Photo] By Al Jazeera Staff and AFP Published On 14 Nov 2026 14 Nov 2026 South Sudan has delayed its first-ever presidential and parliamentary elections until February, the latest in a series of delays to the long-sought vote, as ethnic and political tensions deepen.
The country’s election commission announced on Saturday that the polls would be held on February 11 next year, instead of December 22 this year. It did not give any reason for the decision.
Also covering this story
One other newsroom covered this event. We read that version too.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in