Security has been heightened across key locations in Juba, South Sudan's capital, in anticipation of the expected dissolution of the transitional government. Major General Lul Ruai Koang, spokesperson for the South Sudan People's Defence Forces (SSPDF), confirmed the increased security presence. The move is a precautionary measure to maintain public safety and order during the political transition.
The expected dissolution of the government comes as South Sudan reaches a crucial stage in its political transition, under provisions of the peace agreement and the recently amended electoral framework. President Salva Kiir assented to the National Elections Act 2012 (Amendment) Act 2026, hours after it was passed by the Transitional National Legislative Assembly. The amended law provides a legal framework for general elections scheduled for December 22, 2026.
The amended law empowers the President to dissolve executive structures three months before polling day, under Section 15(2). The incumbent President is allowed to remain in office and exercise executive authority while vice presidents and other cabinet members transition out ahead of the elections. This development has significant implications for South Sudan's transition to a new government.
Authorities have described the increased security deployment as a necessary measure to ensure public safety during the transition. The developments are being closely monitored as South Sudan moves toward the 2026 election cycle, with attention focused on the implementation of the amended electoral framework and the transition of executive structures.
President Salva Kiir announced the dissolution of the 2018 peace government, forming a caretaker government in its place. The move is in line with the provisions of the amended electoral framework and the National Elections Act. The caretaker government will oversee the country's transition to the 2026 elections.
The international community, including the European Union, has expressed interest in the developments in South Sudan. The EU has stated that no funding is available for South Sudan's December elections. Other international organizations, such as the African Union and IGAD, have been urged to intervene in the elections act dispute.
The situation in South Sudan remains volatile as the country navigates its transition to a new government. Key stakeholders, including the government and international organizations, are working to ensure a peaceful and stable transition. The implementation of the amended electoral framework and the transition of executive structures will be crucial in determining the success of the 2026 elections.
Key points
- The transitional government of South Sudan is set to dissolve as part of the country's transition to a new government ahead of the 2026 elections.
- Security has been heightened in Juba, the capital city, as a precautionary measure to maintain public safety and order during the transition.
- The amended National Elections Act provides a legal framework for general elections scheduled for December 22, 2026.
