South Sudan’s first national elections postponed until February 11: electoral commission

South Sudan, the world's newest country, on Saturday postponed its first national elections from December to February amid growing ethnic and political battles.

The legislative and presidential elections had been scheduled for December 22, after already having been delayed several times. The United Nations had warned that a vote could set off widespread conflict.

The electoral commission issued a new calendar on social media, giving a new voting date of February 11, with results to be announced four days later.

Commission secretary general Ahon Malou Lueth confirmed the change to AFP but would not give a reason or other details.