By: Ginaba Lino
The Catholic bishop of Yei Diocese has urged South Sudanese to make informed decisions during the upcoming elections, warning that vulnerable citizens could be manipulated through petty incentives by individuals seeking political positions.
Bishop Alex Lodiong Sakor Eyobo said the Church has a responsibility to sensitize communities about their rights and encourage voters to carefully consider their choices rather than being tempted by short-term benefits.
He said the political atmosphere surrounding the elections requires communities to remain vigilant and avoid being exploited by politicians pursuing personal interests.
“When moments of elections come in, there are always people who take advantage of poor people and begin manipulating them for their own selfish interests.”
The bishop said the Diocese will continue educating its communities so that citizens can exercise their rights wisely, regardless of uncertainties surrounding the electoral process.
He urged voters not to be deceived by small incentives offered by candidates seeking to secure political positions.
“We try to give our voice so that they are protected, but also, they make their decision wisely.”
The bishop also called for the elections to be conducted peacefully, saying the electoral process should contribute to stability rather than create further insecurity and suffering.
He appealed to regional partners to closely monitor developments linked to the election preparations and help protect communities amid growing fears among some citizens.
“All we pray is that these elections will be conducted peacefully, and we will be able to bring peace instead of increasing the problems.”
The bishop acknowledged that some citizens are already expressing fear and uncertainty about what could happen during and after the elections.
However, Sakor said the Church does not want to encourage fear or portray the future negatively, stressing the importance of remaining hopeful despite the challenges facing the country.
“We would not like to advocate for that. We don’t like to be prophets of doom that things are going to be very bad. We want to be always positive that despite the uncertainty that is there connected with the elections, still God is going to be there to protect our people.”
The bishop also expressed concern about the wider humanitarian and security situation in South Sudan, citing economic difficulties and continued insecurity in parts of the country.
He called for continued prayers and support for affected communities, saying the Church remains committed to accompanying vulnerable people through the difficult period.
“We continue to live and we pray for the best of this country.”
The bishop’s remarks come as South Sudan approaches the 22 December 2026 elections, with communities and stakeholders preparing for a politically significant period amid concerns over security, economic hardship and humanitarian challenges.
He urged citizens and regional partners to remain engaged and committed to peaceful participation, saying the ultimate goal should be to protect communities and strengthen peace rather than deepen the country’s existing challenges.