South Sudan President Salva Kiir signs election law changes, removing census and constitution requirements before December vote

South Sudan President Salva Kiir signed amendments to the election law on September 21, 2026, removing requirements for a permanent constitution and census before the December 22 elections. The main opposition coalition rejected the changes. The next day, Kiir dissolved the transitional government and appointed caretaker ministers. The elections would be South Sudan's first since independence in 2011. Riek Machar, Kiir's rival, remains under house arrest and on trial. Observers warn of risks to peace and democracy.