Western Equatoria State Governor Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa addresses community members, civil society leaders, and election officials during the official launch of the Civic and Voter Education Campaign in Yambio, Tuesday, August 4, 2026. (Photo: Courtesy of the Governor's Office)

Western Equatoria State plans to recruit and deploy 1,200 police officers across towns and rural areas to maintain order during South Sudan’s upcoming 2026 general elections, Governor Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa confirmed.

Speaking in Yambio on Tuesday during the rollout of the state’s Civic and Voter Education Campaign, Rimbasa stated that public safety remains central to the electoral timeline.

In a statement, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to holding peaceful, credible, and secure elections.

“The time for war is over, and the time for peace has come. We must do everything within our capacity to make sure our people can vote for the leaders they need. Security will be paramount throughout this process,” Rimbasa said.

The governor instructed regional security agencies to safeguard voters, observers, civil society personnel, and staff from the National Elections Commission throughout the voting drive.

“Nothing should happen to them. We will deploy our police officers at strategic positions where they will maintain order, so that this exercise can be conducted successfully,” Rimbasa added.

He also cautioned against any attempts to intimidate or interfere with polling staff, emphasizing that state authorities possess the political willingness to maintain a secure environment.

The state government highlighted that strong police presence is vital for establishing public confidence and encouraging participation across all payams and bomas.