Kenyan President William Ruto has pledged to support South Sudan as it prepares for elections scheduled for Dec. 22, during talks with President Salva Kiir in Nairobi on Monday.
The two leaders discussed the planned elections, which would be South Sudan’s first national vote since it gained independence from Sudan in 2011.
“Kenya stands ready to support South Sudan throughout the electoral process,” Ruto said, calling for dialogue, consensus and cooperation among the country’s political parties.
The election is intended to mark the end of South Sudan’s prolonged transitional period under a 2018 peace agreement that sought to end a civil war between forces loyal to Kiir and his former deputy, Riek Machar.
The agreement has been repeatedly delayed, with disagreements over security arrangements, constitutional reforms and preparations for elections contributing to extensions of the transitional government.
South Sudan’s electoral authorities have set Dec. 22 as the polling date, although the process faces political and security challenges.
The African Union has urged South Sudan’s leaders to uphold the peace agreement and work towards elections that are credible, inclusive and transparent.
Kenya has played a role in regional efforts to mediate South Sudan’s political crises and maintains close economic and security ties with its northern neighbour.
Ruto and Kiir also discussed bilateral economic cooperation, including trade and investment, according to statements from the two governments.
With the election date approaching, regional support is expected to remain important as South Sudan seeks to manage political differences and maintain stability during the transition.
