South Sudan Parliament Passes Election Bill Amendment

South Sudan's National Legislature recently passed the National Elections Act, 2012 (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introducing significant changes to the country's electoral framework, including provisions for the incumbent president to remain in office during elections and the removal of vice presidents. This legislative action, following a tense debate, amends the existing electoral law to govern the conduct of general elections, voter registration, and the composition of national and state legislatures. A critical provision stipulates that the incumbent president, currently Salva Kiir, will retain full constitutional powers throughout the election period until a newly elected president assumes office. Furthermore, the amendment mandates that within three months of the election date announced by the National Elections Commission, the incumbent president shall remove the First Vice President, Riek Machar, and other vice presidents in accordance with Article 105(2) of the Transitional Constitution. The bill also extends voting rights to South Sudanese nationals residing abroad who hold valid passports and meet registration requirements, and modifies the administration of elections at sub-national levels by empowering the National Elections Commission to establish and appoint members to high committees.