Security Council LIVE: South Sudan’s first elections loom amid rising violence

Peace and Security

With South Sudan just six weeks away from its first national elections since independence, the Security Council meets in New York Tuesday amid deepening political uncertainty and worsening violence. Ambassadors are expected to press for an inclusive process and credible polls, while civilians bear the brunt of fighting, hunger and displacement.

Key Facts

  • Elections are set for 22 December, the first since independence in 2011
  • President Salva Kiir dissolved the transitional government in September and removed all vice-presidents, including the detained Riek Machar
  • Clashes in Upper Nile state have displaced more than 35,000 people
  • 2.5 million people face emergency hunger, and 73,300 face catastrophe

  • Three peacekeepers were killed in an ambush in Jonglei in August

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