The European Union has warned South Sudan's incoming caretaker government against taking decisions with significant political implications as the country prepares for elections scheduled for December. EU Ambassador Pelle Enarsson and Deputy Head of Delegation Zissimos Vergos held a press conference in Juba, South Sudan, on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. Enarsson emphasized that a caretaker government should limit itself to routine administration and avoid overusing its powers.
Enarsson noted that the existence of a caretaker government is not in itself a problem, as similar arrangements exist in other countries during election periods. However, he expressed concern that the executive might overuse its powers at a time when checks and balances may be weakened. The caretaker administration will face the difficult task of responding to a potentially worsening humanitarian situation in South Sudan.
The comments came as South Sudan approaches the December 22 elections, with preparations still facing political, technical, and financial challenges. Enarsson said only about three months remained before the planned elections and that the country would need to accelerate preparations. He described holding free and fair elections by December as an "incredible challenge."
Enarsson said the elections could still take place if the government provides sufficient resources, technical expertise, and capacity, accelerates voter registration, and trains the officials needed to conduct the polls. He stressed that the government needs to be in the driver's seat and allocate resources before seeking additional international assistance.
President Salva Kiir is expected to dissolve South Sudan's transitional government after parliament passed amendments to the election law allowing the president to relieve the vice presidents and dissolve the government three months before the December 22 elections. Kiir signed the amendments into law on Monday. The law provides for the incumbent executive to remain in office with full constitutional powers throughout the election period.
The EU also warned that drought, flooding, and food insecurity could undermine electoral participation. Enarsson said the effects of El Niño were already being monitored, including dry conditions in Eastern Equatoria and the risk of increased hunger. The EU is planning to increase its humanitarian contribution, and Enarsson stressed that the government must take the lead in responding to disasters.
Enarsson also discussed other issues, including the country's potential for renewable energy, particularly hydropower, and the importance of an inter-party political dialogue expected to begin on Thursday. He said the dialogue would be important in determining the country's political readiness for the elections and that the EU supports calls for greater African representation in the international multilateral system.
Key points
- The European Union has warned South Sudan's caretaker government against overreach and emphasized the need for free and fair elections by December.
- The country's preparations for the elections are facing challenges, including political, technical, and financial issues.
- The EU has expressed interest in South Sudan's potential for renewable energy, particularly hydropower, and supports greater African representation in global decision-making institutions.
