The South Sudan Transitional National Assembly has officially ratified significant amendments to the 2018 peace agreement, a decision aimed at accelerating the country’s first general elections, which are scheduled for December 2026, and removing major legal obstacles. During a session chaired by Speaker Joseph Ngere Paciko on Tuesday, the parliament approved these changes, which defer two critical pre-election requirements—the national population and housing census and the permanent constitution-making process—transferring these tasks to the future elected government.
Parliamentary spokesperson Oliver Mori described the ratification as a major milestone for South Sudan’s democratic transition since its independence in 2011, explaining that removing these hurdles paves the way for the National Elections Commission and political parties to accelerate preparations for the polls.
The legal amendments, presented by the Chairperson of the Committee on Legislation and Legal Affairs, Dengtiel Ayuen Kuur, were implemented under Article 8.4 of the peace agreement. Key changes include separating the transitional constitution from the permanent constitution-making process, rescheduling the census for after the elections, requiring the National Elections Commission to organize the vote 60 days before the end of the transitional period, and reducing the time for publishing the voters’ register from six months to three.
While supporters argue that these changes are essential to prevent further election delays, some opposition groups and civil society organizations remain concerned that proceeding without a census or a permanent constitution could impact the inclusiveness and credibility of the process.
Nevertheless, the ratification has effectively shifted the country’s focus from negotiating timelines to intensifying voter registration, civic education, and logistical preparations for what could be a historic turning point in South Sudan’s political transition.
