Kiir Dissolves South Sudan Government Ahead of December Vote

South Sudan President Salva Kiir has dissolved the transitional government, a move that comes just hours after he signed amendments to the National Elections Act. The legal changes effectively remove the requirement for a permanent constitution and a national census before the vote can take place, according to officials in Juba.

The decision was announced on Tuesday, with the dissolution set to take effect at midnight local time. Kiir’s office stated that the action is in line with the agreed elections timetable, which sees the first-ever national vote scheduled for December 22. However, the timing has raised concerns among regional analysts who view the move as a consolidation of power rather than a step toward democratic transition.

Legal shifts concentrate presidential authority

The recent amendments to election laws have drawn sharp criticism from legal experts. According to Africanews, the changes allow the president to remain in power while removing all vice-presidents appointed under the 2018 peace agreement during the election period. This structural shift leaves the president without a cabinet or parliamentary oversight during the critical transition phase.

Michael Wani, a lawyer and former member of the constitution drafting committee, described the situation as one where Kiir will hold unfettered control. He noted that the president will operate without vice-presidents, an executive body, or a parliament. Independent analyst Machot Amuom echoed these concerns, pointing out that the new legal framework gives the president full powers, including the ability to delay the election indefinitely if desired.

Security forces placed on high alert

A visible increase in military presence was reported in the capital, Juba, on Tuesday. An AFP journalist noted a higher density of soldiers along major roads, a departure from the usual security posture in the city. One local vendor, speaking anonymously, stated that they decided to close their shop early due to the unusual number of uniformed personnel on the streets.

The Internal Security Bureau issued a directive ordering all forces to remain in uniform and on high alert for three days starting from September 22. Civil servants reported that some ministries were closed without warning, with military posts established outside government buildings. One official said they were instructed to return home, leaving them uncertain about the specific reasons for the sudden deployment.

Political tensions remain dangerously high

The political landscape in South Sudan remains fragile, with significant tensions between rival factions. Opposition leader Riek Machar is currently jailed on treason charges, a fact that international observers cite as a major risk factor. Many fear that the upcoming election could tip the country back into full-blown conflict if the process is perceived as rigged or if the security situation deteriorates further.

Despite the scheduled date, the groundwork for a fair election remains largely unmet. No voters have been registered, rival armies have not been unified, and the constitution has not been finalized. The combination of these missing preconditions and the recent legal changes has led to widespread warnings that the transition may fail to meet international standards for democratic governance.