South Sudan 2026 Elections: Bill Before Parliament Keeps Salva Kiir in Office

Salva Kiir (Photo/Archive)

Juba, South Sudan – South Sudan’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Ruben Madol Arol, has presented a bill to the Transitional National Legislative Assembly to amend the National Elections Act of 2012 (2026 Amendment). The bill includes significant structural proposals regarding the status of the presidency during the electoral period. This move comes as official preparations within the country accelerate ahead of the anticipated elections scheduled for December 22.

First Reading and Constitutional Amendments

The Minister formally presented the draft law to Parliament for its first reading. He explained that the proposed package of amendments primarily aims to address any inconsistencies within the current legislative text. Furthermore, the amendments seek to precisely align all provisions with the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan (2011) and its subsequent amendments, thereby ensuring the legal integrity of the electoral process.

The Anticipated Scenario for the Presidency and Parliament

According to Oliver Mori Benjamin, the official spokesperson for the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, the new bill proposes that the incumbent president remain in office with full powers and constitutional authority throughout the electoral period. Conversely, the terms of the First Vice President and the other vice presidents would conclude three full months prior to the scheduled date of the polls. On the legislative front, the bill outlines clear arrangements regarding the structure and composition of the future elected parliament; the assembly would consist of 332 members, with seats allocated according to specific ratios: 50% for geographical constituencies, 35% for women, and the remaining 15% for party lists.

The Law’s Enactment Process and Electoral District Updates

It is noteworthy that the Council of Ministers officially approved a package of proposed amendments to the electoral law on September 11. These significant amendments include a return to the 102-constituency system previously adopted for the 2010 elections. This action preceded the final referral of the bill to the legislative authority for the completion of enactment procedures. The bill remains under discussion and scrutiny at various legislative stages within the parliamentary chambers, paving the way for its final adoption and entry into force in conjunction with preparations for the December 2026 elections.

Source: https://www.voiceofemirates.com/en/politics/2026/09/18/south-sudan-2026-elections-bill-before-parliament-keeps-salva-kiir-in-office/