The United Nations has raised concerns over political instability, violence and corruption ahead of South Sudan’s planned elections.
The country is preparing to hold its first national elections since gaining independence in 2011.
The government says the vote will take place in December.
However, a UN-appointed human rights commission says important conditions for peaceful and credible elections remain missing.
South Sudan elections face major challenges
Members of the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan raised the concerns after visiting the country.
According to Africanews, the commission said political and civic space had narrowed.
It also warned that violence and serious human rights violations continue.
The commission reported cases of killings, displacement, sexual violence and arbitrary detention.
It called for independent investigations into alleged abuses.
Political tensions remain high
South Sudan continues to face political tensions between forces aligned with President Salva Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar.
Machar is currently imprisoned.
The tensions have placed further pressure on a power-sharing agreement between the country’s political rivals.
Meanwhile, violence has increased in parts of the country.
The UN commission warned that continued instability could affect preparations for the elections.
UN commission raises corruption concerns
The commission also raised concerns about corruption and the management of public resources.
It said there had been little progress since a previous report examined the issue.
That report accused members of South Sudan’s political elite of diverting billions of dollars in oil revenue.
The commission also criticised limited investment in schools, hospitals and other public institutions.
These remain allegations and findings presented by the UN-appointed commission.
Elections previously delayed
South Sudan has postponed national elections twice.
Votes planned for 2022 and 2024 were delayed as authorities struggled to complete preparations.
The government now intends to hold elections in December.
If they take place, they would be South Sudan’s first national elections since independence.
However, the UN commission says more work is needed to create conditions for peaceful and credible polls.