South Sudan's Kiir dissolves unity government ahead of December 22 elections

September 23, 2026 at 07:00 AM2 min

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South Sudan's President Salva Kiir dissolved the transitional unity government and appointed a caretaker administration on Tuesday. The decree removes all vice-presidents, ministers, and dissolves national and state assemblies, clearing the way for elections scheduled for December 22. The move ends the power-sharing arrangement under the 2018 peace deal and raises concerns about unchecked presidential power.

Key Facts

The decree removes all vice-presidents, ministers, and local administrators, and dissolves the national and state assemblies.
Elections are scheduled for December 22, without first completing a permanent constitution or census.
The 2018 peace deal followed a civil war that killed about 400,000 people and displaced millions, according to the United Nations.
Amnesty International called the decree a 'decisive step' towards the country's first-ever elections, but urged authorities to ensure a conducive environment for voting.

The Decree

The decree was read out by the national broadcaster and stated that all vice-presidents, ministers, and local administrators have been removed. It also dissolved the national and state assemblies, while the judiciary and security institutions remain in place. Kiir will stay in office 'during the election period until the next elected president assumes office', the decree said. The decree came a day after parliament approved changes to the National Elections Act that allowed Kiir to stay in power during the election period.

Election Preparations

The changes mean South Sudan can move towards elections scheduled for December 22 without first completing a permanent constitution or census. Elections were initially expected in 2022 but have been postponed twice. Tasks still outstanding under the 2018 peace deal include drafting a permanent constitution, registering voters, and unifying the armed forces loyal to rival parties. The main opposition alliance has rejected the changes.

Reactions and Concerns

Amnesty International called Kiir's decree a 'decisive step' towards the country's first-ever elections. Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International's regional director for East and Southern Africa, urged authorities to 'ensure that a conducive environment exists for people to vote and stand in elections'. Analysts warned that the changes offered Kiir unfettered control, with lawyer Michael Wani saying Kiir will be the only person in power without vice-presidents, executive, or parliament. Independent analyst Machot Amuom told AFP there was a lot of 'ambiguity' in the legal changes.