South Sudan President Kiir signs election law changes ahead of December polls

On Tuesday, South Sudan experienced a heightened security presence in its capital, Juba, following President Salva Kiir's alteration of the law to retain power while removing the vice-presidents ahead of the nation's inaugural election. South Sudan gained independence in 2011, but was soon engulfed in a five-year civil war between Kiir and the now-incarcerated Vice-President Riek Machar.

The upcoming December election, postponed twice, has raised concerns among international observers due to widespread poverty and corruption, which cast doubt on the country's readiness to conduct a free and fair vote.

President Kiir endorsed the National Elections Act on Monday, authorizing the dismissal of five vice-presidents appointed under a 2018 power-sharing deal with the opposition. According to a government statement, Kiir pledged to maintain his position until the election to ensure "continuity." An AFP journalist reported an amplified military presence in Juba, stating that the sight of many soldiers along roadsides was unusual and prompted a local vendor to close their shop for safety.

The Internal Security Bureau issued a directive, accessible to AFP, mandating that all forces be "in uniforms and on high alert for (3) days" starting September 22. A confidential source stated they discovered their office closed and a significant military presence outside upon arriving for work. With tensions running high between competing political factions, international observers fear the election could reignite a full-scale conflict in the nation.