South Sudan has received a positive assessment from an African Union pre-election mission examining preparations for the country’s upcoming elections. The delegation, led by former Nigerian Foreign Minister Geoffrey Onyeama, met government officials in Juba, including Cabinet Affairs Minister Martin Elia Lomoro, to assess progress toward a credible electoral process. Onyeama praised the government’s efforts and expressed confidence in the prospects for free, fair, transparent and credible elections. The African Union also pledged continued support and consultations with government institutions and other stakeholders. For President Salva Kiir’s transitional government, the endorsement provides diplomatic backing as it seeks to demonstrate readiness for elections after years of political instability. For the AU, continued engagement offers leverage to encourage stronger institutions and broader stakeholder participation.