South Sudan President Salva Kiir Mayardit has sworn in five newly appointed officials in Juba, as the country prepares for general elections scheduled for December 22, 2026. The swearing-in ceremony took place on Friday, October 23, with Kiir directing the officials to improve service delivery, strengthen government institutions, and promote national stability. The appointments follow changes to senior government positions.
Those sworn in include Hussein Abdelbagi Akol, appointed Presidential Adviser on International Relations and Foreign Affairs; Ambassador Bol Wek Agoth, the Caretaker Minister of Cabinet Affairs; and Angelo Ngot Mayar, the Caretaker Governor of Warrap State. The other officials are Lieutenant General Apiu Goch Dut, who will serve as Deputy Director General for Administration and Finance at the Internal Security Bureau of the National Security Service, and Tor Deng Mawien, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Civil Aviation Authority.
The appointments affect several key institutions, including the presidency, national security, state administration, and civil aviation, as the government continues operating under a caretaker arrangement ahead of the polls. Kiir urged the officials to begin their duties immediately and organise their respective institutions to improve public services. He emphasised the importance of working hard for the betterment of the country.
On September 22, 2026, Kiir dissolved the transitional government, the national legislature, state governments, and their assemblies, and authorities in three administrative areas. He subsequently established a caretaker administration to oversee government operations during the electoral period. This transition follows repeated extensions of the transitional period established under the 2018 peace agreement, which ended a civil war in South Sudan.
The December vote is intended to move the country towards an elected government after years of delays. Caretaker officials are expected to maintain essential government functions while the country prepares for the elections. They are also required to remain politically neutral and are prohibited from using public office, government resources, or state institutions to favour or disadvantage political parties and candidates.
The latest swearing-in ceremony comes as the government seeks to maintain administrative continuity while preparing for the planned polls. Kiir’s directive places responsibility on the newly appointed officials to ensure that public institutions continue delivering services during the electoral period. The officials will play a crucial role in maintaining stability and promoting national development.
The swearing-in of the new officials is a significant step towards ensuring a smooth transition of power in South Sudan. The country is expected to hold its general elections on December 22, 2026, marking a major milestone in its transition towards an elected government. The caretaker administration will continue to oversee government operations until the elections are held.
Key points
- South Sudan President Salva Kiir swears in five new officials ahead of general elections on December 22, 2026.
- The appointments aim to improve service delivery, strengthen government institutions, and promote national stability.
- Caretaker officials are expected to remain politically neutral and maintain essential government functions during the electoral period.
