South Sudan President Salva Kiir announced the removal of the National Elections Commission chairperson, Abednego Akok Kacuol, just three months before the East African nation's first-ever election.
Kiir did not provide a public reason for firing Kacuol during his announcement on Tuesday night. Gabriel Bol Deng Majok, who previously served as the electoral commission’s secretary general, has been appointed as the new chairperson.
This sudden leadership shakeup occurs at a critical juncture for the country. The transitional period and the implementation of the 2018 peace agreement have already faced multiple extensions. Under the current roadmap, the transitional government is scheduled for dissolution on September 22, with national elections slated for December 22, ahead of the transitional period's expiration in February.
Experts warn that this abrupt change could disrupt the upcoming polls. Abraham Kuol Nyuon, a political analyst and dean of the University of Juba's graduate college, stated that the leadership transition could further complicate crucial preparation steps, such as voter registration. Kuol described the move as a "delay tactic" and suggested that "the people of South Sudan should forget about the Dec. 22 polls," noting that the newly appointed chairperson will require time to adjust to the role and make necessary decisions to finalize preparations.
The dismissal has also sparked legal concerns. The National Elections Act outlines strict guidelines and specific grounds for removing an electoral chairperson, including gross misconduct, proven partiality, or an inability to perform official duties. Boboya James Edmond, a policy analyst and chief executive officer of the Institute of Social Policy Research in South Sudan, argued that the president's decision bypassed these legal boundaries.
"The president has no sole authority under the law in South Sudan to remove the chairperson of the National Electoral Commission unless the detailed procedures are followed," Edmond said, warning that the action injects further uncertainty. He added, "The president is acting now as a referee rather than as a player and participant in the electoral process."
This development follows recent warnings from international observers. Last week, the U.N. Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan cautioned that holding elections without proper safeguards and inclusive political dialogue could spark renewed conflict. Yasmin Sooka, the commission's chairperson, emphasized the high stakes, stating: "The country can move toward elections in a way that deepens division and conflict, or it can use this moment to restore political dialogue, protect civilians and put in place the safeguards needed for a peaceful and credible transition."
Related Articles
Meet Md. Rubel Rana
​As a core contributor to Worlddincidents.com, Rubel Rana brings a unique perspective to the world of journalism. Whether it’s deep-diving into historical trivia or covering the latest global headlines, Rubel Rana is committed to delivering high-quality, high-impact articles. Their writing blends meticulous research with a compelling voice, helping readers stay informed and curious about the world around them.