Salva Kiir Dissolves South Sudan Transitional Government Ahead of December Polls

South Sudan President Salva Kiir has dissolved the country’s transitional unity government and appointed a caretaker administration, marking the end of the power-sharing arrangement established under the 2018 peace agreement.

The dissolution was announced three months before general elections scheduled for December 22, 2026. The vote is intended to be South Sudan’s first national election since the country gained independence in 2011.

Under the presidential order, the vice-presidents and national ministers were relieved of their positions, while the Transitional National Legislative Assembly and Council of States were dissolved.

State governments and legislative assemblies across South Sudan were also dissolved, with Kiir appointing caretaker officials to oversee key government functions during the election period.

Kiir to Remain President During Transition

Kiir will remain president and retain his constitutional powers until an elected president is sworn into office.

The caretaker administration is expected to maintain essential government functions while the country prepares for the December polls.

The order places restrictions on caretaker officials, including limits on major borrowing, long-term international agreements and the disposal of public assets without appropriate authorisation. It also directs officials not to use public resources to favour or disadvantage political parties or candidates.

The dissolution follows amendments to South Sudan’s electoral laws that removed earlier requirements for a permanent constitution and national population census to be completed before elections could take place.

Election Preparations Under Scrutiny

South Sudan has repeatedly postponed elections during its extended transitional period.

The transitional unity government emerged from the 2018 peace agreement, which sought to end years of civil conflict and establish a framework for power sharing and eventual elections.

The election process has faced disagreements among political groups, including over the legal changes and the state of preparations for the vote. International organisations have also called for an inclusive political process and safeguards to reduce the risk of renewed instability.

Kiir has maintained that preparations for the election are progressing and that the 2018 peace agreement has not collapsed. His government says political parties have been registered, election offices established across the states and preparations for voter registration are under way.

The dissolution now shifts South Sudan into a caretaker period, with attention turning to voter registration, political dialogue and whether the country will proceed with the scheduled December 22 election.