South Sudan President replaces election chief ahead of polls

South Sudanese President Salva Kiir has removed Abednego Akok Kacuol as chairperson of the National Elections Commission (NEC). No official reason was provided for the dismissal of Akok, who had held the position since 2012 and was reappointed in November 2023 following the 2018 peace agreement.

Gabriel Bol Deng Majok, the commission’s former secretary-general, has been appointed to replace Akok. While Majok’s familiarity with the institution may reduce some disruption, experts warn that the leadership change comes at a critical time. The move occurs just months before the country’s scheduled elections on December 22, 2026.

Political analysts have expressed concern that the transition could delay essential preparations, such as voter registration. Some observers have questioned the legality of the removal under the National Elections Act, which specifies certain grounds for dismissal, and suggested the timing could further complicate the country’s already delayed electoral roadmap.