Republic of South Sudan - Political Parties Council - PPC

"To the people of South Sudan, as we step into the vibrant new year of 2025, the Political Parties Council extends heartfelt wishes for peace, prosperity, and unity. May this year bring an abundance of hope, progress, and opportunities for all. Let us work together to build a brighter future for our beloved nation."

Happy New Year to you fellow compatriots 🎉

- The Political Parties Council

POLITICAL PARTIES COUNCIL TO EMBARK ON REGIONAL BENCHMARK TRIP

Despite the postponement of elections until December 2026, the Political Parties Council is actively preparing by collaborating with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) ahead of a benchmarking trip to Kenya, to familiarize the Council with electoral procedures.
The Political Parties Council and IGAD met to strengthen their partnership, focusing on capacity building and regulatory compliance within political parties. The Deputy Chairperson of the Council emphasized the need to boost regional cooperation to enhance the Council's regulatory mechanisms, particularly regarding the 35% women’s representation stipulated in the Political Parties Act of 2012, as amended in 2022.
Representatives from IGAD and Kenya are in Juba to support South Sudan’s efforts in capacity building for a more effective political process.

TRANSFORMATION OF THE POLITICAL PARTIES COUNCIL AND THE INAUGURATION OF ITS NEW OFFICE

The Political Parties Council (PPC) of South Sudan has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, marked by notable developments in its operations and infrastructure. This transformation is now symbolized by the Council’s new, modernized head office, located in the cheerful area of Hai Malakal. The move from its former office in Hai Jalaba has not only provided a state-of-the-art working environment but also reflects the Council's commitment to enhancing its service delivery and fulfilling its mandate to the people of South Sudan.

The new headquarters, a towering five-story building, stands as a testament to the Council’s progress and ongoing dedication to its mission. The location is bustling with activity, as the Council’s staff work diligently under the leadership of the Chairperson and in accordance with the Political Parties Act of 2012.
The building itself is a symbol of the Council’s achievements, as well as the important work that lies ahead.

The official inauguration of this prestigious building took place on July 8, 2024, in a grand ceremony officiated by His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit and the Chairperson of the PPC, Eng. James Akol Zakayo. This milestone was made possible through the unwavering support of the Government of South Sudan and the tireless efforts of the Council's leadership.

ENHANCED WORKING ENVIRONMENT AND SERVICE DELIVERY

The new head office has already garnered praise from staff and visitors alike. Employees have expressed their satisfaction with the spacious and well-equipped offices, which have fostered a more productive and comfortable work environment. The integration of advanced technology, including a fast 5G internet network, has revolutionized the way the Council conducts its operations. With improved internet connectivity, staff can now conduct research more efficiently, communicate seamlessly, and share information more effectively, both within the Council and with the broader public. The enhanced digital infrastructure has also had a direct impact on the Council’s service delivery, allowing it to better serve the South Sudanese people. Whether through improved responsiveness, more efficient operations, or a greater ability to connect with political parties and stakeholders, the new office has facilitated the Council’s ongoing mission to uphold democratic values and political pluralism.

NOTABLE EVENTS AT THE NEW OFFICE
Since its inauguration, the new office has been the venue for several key events and milestones. Official meetings, press conferences, and important announcements have already taken place within its walls. A standout example is the Political Parties Code of Conduct Act, which was passed and approved on August 13, 2024. This new legislation, aimed at fostering free and fair elections and enhancing democratic practices, underscores the Council’s role in shaping the future of South Sudan’s political landscape.

In addition, the official registration of 14 new political parties occurred at the new headquarters, further demonstrating the Council’s role in facilitating political inclusivity and diversity. These developments highlight the Council's ongoing commitment to its constitutional mandate and to the promotion of democratic governance in South Sudan.

A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR THE POLITICAL PARTIES COUNCIL

With a dynamic workforce of young, talented, and qualified staff, the Political Parties Council is well-positioned to tackle the challenges ahead and fulfil its responsibilities to the nation.

The future of the Council, and indeed the nation, is bright. As the Council continues to uphold its mandate and promote the values of democracy, unity, and peace, it remains steadfast in its commitment to the people of South Sudan.

POLITICAL PARTIES COUNCIL-IGAD PRE-ELECTION CONVERGENCE
As South Sudan's election season draws near, the Political Parties Council, led by Eng. James Akol Zakayo, is intensifying efforts to strengthen cooperation with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). The goal is to ensure a smooth electoral process for the country’s post-independence elections.
In a key meeting between the Council's Chairperson, Eng. James Akol Zakayo, and IGAD’s Special Envoy to South Sudan, Ambassador Ismail Wais, both leaders addressed the challenges hindering the council’s collaboration with IGAD. The discussions centered on improving capacity-building initiatives to support the Council's operations during and after the election period.
Eng. Zakayo emphasized the Council's priorities, which include bolstering its human resources, logistics, and ICT departments to enhance its electoral management capabilities, confirming the eligibility of 29 registered political parties to participate in the upcoming elections and secure data storage.
Additionally, their discussions touched on the development of an integrated system for managing and storing institutional membership data, a critical step towards ensuring the credibility and transparency of the electoral process.

IN-DEPTH OF THE POLITICAL PARTIES CODE OF CONDUCT ACT 2024

The Political Parties Code of Conduct Act 2024 outlines a comprehensive framework designed to foster a fair and democratic political environment in South Sudan, reinforcing principles of integrity, tolerance, and national unity during elections. Grounded in the constitution and building on the Political Parties Act of 2012, this legislation empowers the Political Parties Council to establish key rules governing political conduct before, during, and after elections.

Objectives of the Code of Conduct: the primary aim of the Code is to create a fair, conducive atmosphere for democratic elections, fostering tolerance for political debate and ensuring that individuals and groups can express their views freely. It also emphasizes the promotion of national unity, nationalism, and patriotism, crucial elements in strengthening the country's democratic fabric.

Political parties are bound by the Code to: Uphold and respect its provisions; take concrete steps to prevent violations by their leaders and members; actively discourage and avoid any breach of conduct; and show mutual respect for political opponents, ensuring peaceful coexistence throughout the electoral process.

About key Principles of the Code, Political parties have a duty to provide voters with accurate and honest information that empowers them to make informed, independent choices about candidates and policies.
Free and Fair Voting: Parties are required to ensure that voters can cast their votes freely, without undue influence, fear, intimidation, or bribery.
Respect for the Will of Voters: the actions and behaviours of political parties must reflect and respect the will of the voters.

All registered political parties are expected to adhere to the following guiding rules: respect and defend the Constitution; must operate within the framework of the Constitution of South Sudan, promoting the country's legal and democratic structures; Promote National Unity and Patriotism; strengthen nationalism, peace, and patriotism, fostering a spirit of unity and collaboration in building the nation; uphold Human Rights and Rule of Law; defending human rights and the rule of law is essential, ensuring that political processes do not infringe on the rights of any group or individual; engage in promoting free, fair, and credible elections while respecting democratic principles and maintaining the integrity of the electoral process; should be afforded equal access to state-owned media, allowing a fair platform for communication and outreach; must conduct themselves with integrity, avoiding actions that could undermine the electoral system or erode public trust.

Prohibited Behaviours: The Code also outlines several actions and behaviours that political parties must avoid to ensure a peaceful and credible election process.

Use of Defamatory or Abusive Language: Parties should refrain from using language that may insult or defame others, fostering a climate of respect; promotion of Violence or Intimidation; parties must avoid any acts that promote or provoke violence, or intimidate candidates, supporters, or opponents; bribery and Corruption; engaging in bribery, influence-peddling, or any corrupt practices is strictly prohibited; ethnic Incitement, parties should avoid any form of speech or actions that could incite ethnic hatred or violence; misuse of Political Party Funds, parties must reject illicit or illegal funding, particularly from the Political Parties Fund, which is to be used solely for legal purposes; use of Weapons at Political Gatherings, political gatherings should remain peaceful, and parties must refrain from carrying or displaying fi****ms or other weapons; online Hate Speech, the use of cyberspace to promote hate speech or inflammatory content is strictly forbidden; destruction of Campaign Materials, political parties and their supporters must not disfigure or destroy the political or campaign materials of their opponents.

In conclusion
The Political Parties Code of Conduct Act 2024 is a crucial instrument in ensuring that the political landscape of South Sudan remains respectful, fair, and democratic. It mandates that political parties and their members conduct themselves in ways that uphold the integrity of the electoral process, the constitution, and the rule of law, while safeguarding national unity, peace, and respect for human rights.
This framework will serve as the foundation for South Sudan’s future political stability and democratic growth.

Do you know the PPC Mandate?

As South Sudan prepares for its first general elections since gaining independence 13 years ago, the Nation stands at a pivotal juncture in its history. The upcoming December 2024 elections present a crucial opportunity to advance the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement and solidify long-term peace across the Country.

In recognition of the significance of these elections, the Presidency and leaders of Political Parties have agreed to seek technical advice from key electoral bodies, including The National Election Commission, The Political Parties Council, and The National Constitutional Review Commission, on the feasibility of holding the elections as planned.

To date, the Political Parties Council has successfully registered 29 Political Parties that are eligible to participate in the December 2024 elections. Below is the list of registered Political Parties in South Sudan.

For more information.
Visit ppc.gov.ss

Political Parties Council passes Election Code of Conduct - Radio Tamazuj The Political Parties Council (PPC) has officially approved a new Election Code of Conduct for

Meeting:13/08/2024
AGENDA:REVISION AND PASSING OF THE CODE OF CONDUCT OF THE POLITICAL PARTIES DOCUMENT ACT.

Discussions
1.All the Registered parties must adhere to the listed rules by THE council for a peaceful and organised election period
2.Unregistered parties are not bound by the ACT and will not participate in anyway,to avoid disruptions like conflicts during and after elections period
3.Security during the campaigning periods will be coordinated by the council.
4.Goverments assests/Government personell not to be used during campaigning to avoid cases of intimidation,preferences or favoring of a particular party.
5.The council will monitor activities during election periods by deploying officials from the council's offices to polling stations across the country to ensure that the elections are conducted under conditions of complete freedom,fairness and transparency

The meeting ended successfully with the passing of the CODE OF CONDUCT Document.It was signed by the CHAIRPERSON OF THE POLITICAL PARTIES Hon.Eng.James AKOL ZAKAYO

🙏 Another wild battle with the USA.

We thank you for the game well played. You still have a long way to go!

Thank you once again! 💚