Salva Kiir Dissolves South Sudan Government Ahead of Elections

On September 23, 2026, South Sudan's President Salva Kiir dissolved the government at midnight (2200 GMT) in preparation for the country's first-ever elections scheduled for December 22. This decision follows significant legal changes to the National Elections Act, which allow Kiir to maintain power while removing all vice-presidents appointed under the 2018 peace agreement during the election period.

Analysts have expressed concerns that these amendments provide Kiir with unfettered control over the electoral process, despite the government's failure to meet preconditions outlined in the peace agreement, such as voter registration and the unification of rival armies. The absence of a constitution and census further complicates the situation.

Increased military presence has been reported in the capital, Juba, amid high tensions between political factions, particularly with opposition leader Riek Machar currently imprisoned on treason charges. International observers fear that the upcoming elections could lead to renewed conflict in the nation.