South Sudan opposition, rights groups doubt December polls will be free and fair
Opposition groups and human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have expressed significant doubts about the fairness and legitimacy of South Sudan's upcoming December 22 elections. These concerns follow President Salva Kiir's dissolution of the transitional government and his appointment of a caretaker administration, which effectively consolidates his power ahead of the polls. Critics highlight unmet requirements for a conducive electoral environment and a history of suppressing dissent.
Why it matters
The widespread doubts about the integrity of South Sudan's first-ever general election could undermine its legitimacy, potentially leading to increased political instability and further challenges to the country's fragile democratic development. The concerns raised by international human rights groups also highlight ongoing issues with civil liberties and freedom of expression in the nation.
Political and human rights organisations have expressed fears about the conduct of free and fair elections in South Sudan on December 22, following the dissolution of the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity on Tuesday.
In a series of decrees, President Salva Kiir named a caretaker administration that will steer the country into the first-ever general election. They include a presidential adviser, 13 caretaker ministers, 10 state caretaker governors, deputy ministers, chief administrators, undersecretaries, and heads of key national institutions.
The dissolution gave executive power to President Kiir, the presidential candidate for the ruling Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM). No prominent figures have announced plans to challenge him in the December poll.
On September 21, President Kiir signed into law the National Elections Act, 2012 (Amendment) Bill, 2026, giving himself to remain in office with full constitutional powers throughout the electoral period.
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