South Sudan President Dissolves Government Amid Dispute Over December Elections
South Sudan President Salva Kiir has dissolved the country’s transitional unity government and appointed a caretaker administration, just three months before elections scheduled for December 22.
The move came a day after Kiir signed amendments to the election law removing requirements for a permanent constitution and a national census to be completed before elections. The amended law also allows Kiir to remain president with full constitutional powers until an elected successor takes office.
The dissolution ended the power-sharing structure established under the 2018 peace agreement, including the positions of First Vice President Riek Machar and four other vice presidents. The national legislature and state governments were also dissolved, with caretaker officials appointed to maintain government operations during the electoral period.
The election timetable has generated controversy because key preparations remain incomplete. South Sudan has never held a national election since gaining independence in 2011, while voter registration and implementation of several provisions of the 2018 peace agreement have faced delays.
The United Nations Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan has warned that elections without adequate safeguards and inclusive political dialogue could contribute to renewed conflict. Amnesty International has also called for protection of civic space and the rights of voters and candidates ahead of the December poll.
Opposition figures have questioned whether the election can be conducted credibly under the revised legal framework. The development also follows Kiir’s removal last week of the chairperson of the National Elections Commission, a decision that was not publicly explained and prompted concerns about preparations for the vote.
The caretaker government is expected to oversee state affairs until elected authorities assume office, while political parties continue to debate the conditions under which the December election should proceed.
