President Kiir assents to constitutional amendment ahead of December elections

Credit: Presidential Press Unit

President Salva Kiir Mayardit has assented to Constitutional Amendment No. 13, clearing a legal pathway for South Sudan’s general elections scheduled for Dec. 22, 2026, according to the presidency.

Kiir signed the Transitional Constitution of the Republic of South Sudan, 2011, as amended, during a constitutional ceremony in Juba on Sept. 2.

The amendment was passed by the Transitional National Legislative Assembly before being presented to the president for assent.

The presidency described the signing as a major constitutional and political milestone ahead of the elections.

The amendment is expected to provide the constitutional basis necessary for preparations for the Dec. 22 polls, as the country continues its transition toward elections.

The government has repeatedly said it is committed to holding elections at the scheduled time, while political parties, civil society organizations and international partners have called for an inclusive, peaceful and credible electoral process.