The Government of South Sudan has defended the inclusion of Abyei residents in the December 2026 general elections, describing the decision as lawful and consistent with existing constitutional and peace agreement provisions.
In a media statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the government rejected Sudan’s objection to the move, saying the participation of the Ngok Dinka residents of Abyei is supported by the Abyei Protocol of the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement, the 2005 Interim Constitutions of Sudan and Southern Sudan, and South Sudan’s Transitional Constitution. The government also noted that Abyei residents participated in the 2010 elections without objection, arguing that the current decision follows a reputable constitutional and electoral practice.
However, the government has reiterated its commitment to resolving the final status of Abyei through peaceful dialogue and negotiations and reaffirmed its support for the mediation efforts of the African Union, the United Nations, and other international partners.
