South Sudan president approves cars for lawmakers after power-consolidating vote

South Sudanese President Salva Kiir has approved an electoral law that consolidates power in his office until the presidential and parliamentary elections in December. Following the passage of this bill, which also removes vice presidents from their duties, National Assembly spokesperson Oliver Mori announced that the president has authorized the purchase of vehicles for members of parliament.

Under the new arrangement, high-ranking officials will receive V6 engine vehicles, while other members will receive five-door sedans provided as loans. The administration has yet to decide whether these vehicles will be considered part of the lawmakers' entitlements or if they must be repaid.

The move has drawn sharp criticism from civil society and exiled activists, who describe the arrangement as corruption. Critics noted that the incentive was offered in exchange for votes on the controversial law, highlighting the disparity between the gift and the economic reality of the country, where many lawmakers reportedly earn less than $50 a month. Transparency International currently ranks South Sudan as the most corrupt country in the world.