On September 23, 2026, President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan announced the dissolution of the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGoNU). This move comes as the country prepares for general elections scheduled for December 22, 2026. The dissolution affects various key positions, including the Council of Ministers and the Transitional National Legislature. President Kiir remains in office and has appointed a caretaker government to oversee the country's transition.
The former Vice Presidents, including Dr. Riek Machar Teny, James Wani Igga, Taban Deng Gai, Hussein Abdelbagi Akol, and Rebecca Nyandeng Garang, have been relieved of their positions. Additionally, the 35 national ministers and their deputies are out of office following the dissolution of the Council of Ministers. The Transitional National Legislature, comprising the Transitional National Legislative Assembly and the Council of States, has also been dissolved. All governors of the 10 states and the Chief Administrators of the three administrative areas have been relieved of their duties.
President Kiir has appointed a caretaker government, including new ministers and their deputies. Some notable appointments include Africano Mande Gedima as Minister of Presidential Affairs, Martin Elia Lomoro as Minister of Cabinet Affairs, and Cecilia Adeng Manyok as Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. Other key appointments include Ayor Akuoch Anok as Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Rizik Zakaria Hassan as Minister of Interior, and Dr. Wek Mamer Kuol as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.
The President has also appointed new caretaker governors for the 10 states. These include Jadala Wani for Central Equatoria, Louis Lobong Lojore for Eastern Equatoria, and Moses Majok Gatluak for Jonglei. Other newly appointed governors are Rin Tueny Mabor for Lakes, Charles Madut for Northern Bahr el Ghazal, and Joseph Nguen Manytuil for Unity. The caretaker government will be responsible for overseeing the country as it moves towards the scheduled elections.
In addition to the ministers and governors, President Kiir has made several other key appointments. These include Gieth Kon Mathiang as Director General of the National Communication Authority, Mosety Kat Majok as Director General of the South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority, and Rizik Dominic Samuel as Commissioner General of the South Sudan Revenue Authority. These appointments aim to ensure a smooth transition as the country prepares for the elections.
The dissolution of the R-TGoNU and the appointment of a caretaker government mark significant steps in South Sudan's transition towards elections. The caretaker government is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring the country's stability and preparedness for the polls. The President's move is seen as a strategic effort to reorganize the government and ensure a peaceful transfer of power.
As South Sudan moves towards the December 22, 2026 elections, the international community is watching closely. The European Union has stated that there is no funding available for the elections, highlighting the challenges the country faces in organizing the polls. Despite these challenges, the President's appointment of a caretaker government is a step towards ensuring the country's stability and progress.
Key points
- President Salva Kiir dissolves the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGoNU) ahead of December elections.
- A caretaker government has been appointed, including new ministers and governors.
- The dissolution affects various key positions, including the Council of Ministers and the Transitional National Legislature.
