South Sudan President Salva Kiir Mayardit has restated a directive requiring officials holding constitutional offices to obtain permission before travelling abroad. This was announced during an expanded caretaker government meeting in Juba, where Kiir briefed officials on his recent diplomatic visits to Kenya and South Africa. The directive aims to regulate foreign travel by senior government officials and members of the organised forces.
A document dated October 3, which circulated publicly, restricts foreign travel by senior government officials and members of the organised forces for three months without permission from Kiir, who is also commander-in-chief. However, the document's authenticity and implementation have not been independently verified. The move comes as the country prepares for elections, with Kiir's government reaffirming its commitment to holding polls in December.
On September 22, Kiir dissolved the transitional unity government and the country's legislative assemblies, dismissing the five vice-presidents. This led to the establishment of a caretaker administration to oversee government affairs. The changes aimed to pave the way for elections, with the country seeking to transition to a new government.
During his recent visits to Nairobi and Pretoria, Kiir met with Kenyan President William Ruto and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. The meetings focused on bilateral cooperation, South Sudan's electoral preparations, and securing support for the polls. Both Kenya and South Africa expressed readiness to support the electoral process, according to the president's office.
The expanded caretaker cabinet reviewed the outcomes of Kiir's visits, progress in the inter-party dialogue, and security preparations for the electoral period. The inter-party dialogue concluded in Juba on October 7, with discussions centered on election-related issues and preparations for the polls. The government is working to ensure a smooth transition and credible elections.
The country is taking steps to ensure the success of the elections, with the government reaffirming its commitment to holding polls in December. Kiir's directive aims to ensure that officials are accountable and that the government can effectively manage the transition. The implementation of the directive and its impact on the country's preparations for elections remain to be seen.
The president's office stated that the expanded caretaker cabinet meeting reviewed progress and challenges in the country's preparations for elections. The government is working to address any issues that may arise and ensure that the elections are held as scheduled. The international community is watching closely, with Kenya and South Africa offering support for the electoral process.
Key points
- President Salva Kiir of South Sudan has reiterated a directive requiring officials to seek permission before travelling abroad.
- The directive aims to regulate foreign travel by senior government officials and members of the organised forces.
- The country is preparing for elections, with the government reaffirming its commitment to holding polls in December.
