AGP Executive Report

Elections Under Threat: UN human rights experts warn South Sudan’s December 22 polls face renewed violence, shrinking civic space, stalled Revitalized Peace Agreement safeguards, and entrenched corruption/impunity. Civilian Protection Alarm: The same UN Commission says women and girls are among the worst affected, with displacement and protection failures continuing across states. SPLM-FD Power Struggle: In Juba, SPLM-FD chief whip Isaiah Hakim Garang calls rivals Madut Biar and Dr. Majak “dark forces,” after internal moves revoking his membership and escalating leadership accusations. Cross-Border Crime Crackdown: Uganda’s URA busts a cigarette smuggling ring using modified Fuso trucks with welded concealment compartments, allegedly moving contraband from DRC via South Sudan routes. Regional Health Pressure: UN warns Ebola in DR Congo has hit a “tipping point,” with thousands dead and no licensed treatment for the Bundibugyo strain—raising spillover fears for neighbors. Diplomacy & Health Support: South Sudan and China honor outgoing Chinese medical teams and welcome the next batch, citing training and services for remote communities. ICE Detention Case: A South Sudanese SCSU student, Deng Deng, is arrested by ICE at Tweed New Haven Airport for overstaying, with the university saying it’s focused on his safety.

Elections & Political Settlement: President Salva Kiir has kicked off preparations for an inter-party dialogue on September 17, bringing parties to align on the electoral pathway ahead of December 2026 polls, including boundaries, independent candidacy, election sequencing, financing, security for candidates, campaign freedoms, voter registration, results transmission, observer access, and dispute mechanisms. Budget & Economic Governance: Finance Minister Kuol Daniel Ayulo tabled the SSP 11.34 trillion 2026/27 budget in Parliament, with oil revenue projected at 79.5% of total revenue and debt servicing/loan repayments at SSP 2.16 trillion, while committees are set to scrutinize spending plans. Statistics Oversight: Kiir appointed a new National Bureau of Statistics board chaired by former finance minister Dr. Dier Tong Ngor, aiming to strengthen integrity and oversight of official data. Border Trade & Regional Integration: The Economic Cluster approved a Nimule one-stop border post to speed up South Sudan–Uganda trade, funded by the EU and implemented by UNOPS, pending Council of Ministers approval. Humanitarian & Health Security: Western Equatoria officials report Congolese nationals and South Sudanese refugees crossing into Ibba County over Ebola fears, prompting screening centres and surveillance teams. Digital Jobs: MTN South Sudan launched an ICT hub in Rumbek to train youth in digital skills and support innovation and entrepreneurship. Diplomacy: South Sudan’s ambassador to Kenya, Simon Juach Deng, received accreditation in Nairobi, with focus on challenges facing South Sudanese nationals in Kenya. Public Finance Compliance: Revenue Authority set a September 15 deadline for August tax filing and payments, as reforms push tighter cash collection.

Elections & Political Settlement: President Salva Kiir has set an inter-party dialogue for September 17 to hash out the electoral pathway ahead of December 2026 polls, including boundaries, independent candidacy, election financing, security for candidates and rallies, observer access, and dispute resolution. Governance & Rule of Law: Juba High Court has ordered an immediate stop to land demarcation in the disputed Nyamini area of Ladu Payam, pending determination of the underlying case—after Bari leaders challenged a Nyangwara land claim. Economy & Revenue: South Sudan’s Revenue Authority set September 15 as the deadline for August tax filing and payments, with payments routed through designated banks to improve transparency. Statistics & Planning: Kiir appointed a new National Bureau of Statistics board chaired by former Finance Minister Dr. Dier Tong Ngor, aiming to strengthen oversight and integrity of official data. Border Trade & Reforms: The Economic Cluster approved a Nimule one-stop border post proposal funded by the EU and implemented by UNOPS, while Interior Minister Aleu Ayieny Aleu ordered downsizing at Nimule to curb revenue leakages. Public Health & Regional Risks: Reports say Congolese nationals and South Sudanese refugees have crossed into Ibba County amid Ebola fears, prompting border screening centres and surveillance teams. Diplomacy: South Sudan’s ambassador to Kenya, Simon Juach Deng, was accredited in Nairobi as regional challenges persist. Humanitarian & Media: AMDISS is holding a national workshop on media self-regulation in Juba, as civil society groups warn the enabling environment for civic actors remains “weak.” International Cooperation: South Sudan honored an outgoing 13th Chinese medical team that treated 13,500 outpatients, 1,700 inpatients and performed 200 surgeries, and welcomed the incoming 14th batch.

Elections Funding: Finance Minister Kuol Daniel Ayulo tabled the 2026-27 budget of about SSP 11.34 trillion, with roughly SSP 184 billion earmarked for December 22 general elections and pre-election activities, as voter registration training rolls out nationwide. Civil Society Space: A South Sudan Human Rights Defenders Network expert panel rated the country’s civil society enabling environment “Weak” (2/5), saying laws exist but implementation blocks rights, civic participation, and safe digital access. Military Leadership: The SSPDF named Major General Atem Salva Kiir as commander of the Tiger Division and also placed him in charge of Special Forces, replacing Deng Madhang. Public Order Crackdown: Juba traffic police were ordered to stop collecting fines on the streets; offenders must be taken to Traffic Police HQ in Buluk for official processing. Political Tensions: SPLM Former Detainees revoked Isaiah Hakim Garang’s membership after he accused VP Rebecca Nyandeng of incitement, escalating internal party disputes ahead of elections. Cross-Border Health: South Sudan and Uganda signed an MoU to remove administrative barriers for rapid movement of health workers and emergency supplies during outbreaks. Regional/Global Watch: UN rights experts urged South Sudan to keep political and civic space open ahead of elections, warning restrictions could damage trust in the process.

Elections Funding: South Sudan’s finance minister Kuol Daniel Ayulo tabled a proposed SSP 11.34 trillion budget for 2026-27, with SSP 183.99 billion earmarked for election preps ahead of the December 22 vote. Political Tensions: SPLM Former Detainees revoked Isaiah Hakim Garang’s membership after he accused VP Rebecca Nyandeng of incitement, as the group warned youth against confrontation. Judicial Process: Dr. Riek Machar’s trial was adjourned after a judge fell sick, with the court set to resume on Sept. 11 amid defense requests over alleged threats. Civic Space: UN human rights experts urged South Sudan to keep political and civic space open and protected to safeguard credible elections. Cross-Border Health: Juba and Kampala agreed to remove administrative barriers for rapid movement of health workers and emergency supplies during outbreaks, including real-time data sharing. Ebola & Food Security: UN updates say Ebola continues spreading in eastern DR Congo with 3,200+ deaths, while WFP warns response must include food aid for hungry communities. Tax & Revenue: South Sudan Revenue Authority gave taxpayers until Sept. 15 to file and pay August taxes, including sales and excise obligations. Local Governance: Bentiu IDP camp opened a temporary court to tackle crime, including SGBV and drug-related cases.

Cross-Border Health Security: South Sudan and Uganda signed an MoU in Juba to remove administrative barriers for rapid movement of health workers, medical vehicles and emergency supplies, with plans for real-time disease surveillance, mutual outbreak alerts, joint contact tracing and coordinated border screening. Tax & Revenue Oversight: South Sudan’s Revenue Authority set September 15 as the deadline for taxpayers to file and pay August taxes, including income withholdings and sales/excise taxes, while an Economic Reforms committee is set to inspect revenue collection at Juba International Airport and review working conditions and collection methods. Drought Response: Relief authorities and WFP discussed measures to strengthen drought response and expand cash assistance for vulnerable communities as farmers face worsening impacts. Civil Society Space: A new assessment by the South Sudan Human Rights Defenders Network rated the country’s environment for civil society “weak,” citing inconsistent protection and risks of restrictions and intimidation. Local Governance & Security: Central Equatoria officials briefed on follow-up to the Arua Resolution with plans for a field visit to border areas, while reports also highlight insecurity concerns after attacks on Catholic nuns on the Torit–Juba highway. Regional Politics Watch: A debate piece questions whether “treason” charges across Africa are being used to curb opposition, pointing to cases including South Sudan’s political disputes.

Cross-Border Health Security: South Sudan and Uganda signed an MoU to strengthen joint disease surveillance, early warning and coordinated responses along their shared border. Economic Reform & Trade Facilitation: A ministerial economic reform team says it has removed illegal checkpoints on the Juba–Nimule Highway, leaving only five security checkpoints and banning customs-style charges on traders. Revenue Crackdown at Juba Airport: An economic reform committee plans to inspect revenue collection at Juba International Airport, with follow-up work also underway in Nimule. Drought Response: Relief authorities and WFP discussed drought measures and cash assistance to help vulnerable communities cope with worsening dry conditions. Elections Readiness Debate: South Sudanese citizens are split on whether December 2026 elections are feasible, citing end-of-rainy-season road problems and urging political will and funding. Security & Rights: Catholic nuns were attacked and robbed on the Torit–Juba highway, while UN rights chief Volker Türk urged stronger protections for migrants. Regional Politics & Tensions: Former Detainees rejected VP Rebecca Nyandeng’s remarks as incitement, warning against mobilising youth against the government. Court Update: Defence in Machar’s trial raised concerns about threats to the accused and asked for protective measures. Sudan Arms Pressure: A UN fact-finding mission demanded enforcement and extension of the Darfur arms embargo amid warnings of continued violations.

Road Reform in Juba–Nimule Corridor: South Sudan’s Economic Reform Committee says it has removed security and “illegal” checkpoints along the Juba–Nimule Highway, leaving only five for security checks and warning against any illegal charges on traders. Local Governance & Land Control: Juba County Commissioner Samuel Emiliano Wani Pitia rejected claims of unauthorised plot allocations in Molobur to a group of comedians, warning chiefs and individuals against land grabbing and directing verification and action. Opposition Leadership Fight: SPLM-IO’s youth wing backed Oyet Nathaniel Pierino as acting chairman, rejecting Regina Kaba’s suspension move amid a widening internal dispute. Cross-Border Cattle Raid Response: Kajo-Keji (South Sudan) and Uganda’s Moyo District agreed to jointly identify, arrest and prosecute people behind a raid that stole over 300 cattle, with some recovery already reported. Energy Diplomacy: South Sudan seeks to reactivate its stalled energy cooperation with Russia, discussing expanded hydropower, oil and gas, renewables and technology transfer to tackle electricity shortages. Drought & Food Security Push: VP Taban Deng Gai urged citizens to end aid dependency and boost farming, while Aweil East officials appealed for urgent drought relief after crops failed and water sources dried up. UN Peace & Water Conflict Mitigation: UNMISS handed over a new reservoir in Terekeka aimed at reducing farmer–cattle keeper clashes by improving water access. Regional Security Context: Reports highlight Sudan’s worsening war dynamics and displacement pressures spilling into the Horn’s volatile borders.

Juba County Land Governance: Juba County Commissioner Samuel Emiliano Wani Pitia has rejected claims that four plots in Molobur, Lado Payam were allocated to a group of comedians, warning anyone posing as chiefs against unauthorized land dealings that could fuel disputes and insecurity. SPLM-IO Leadership Fight: The SPLM-IO National Youth League has backed Oyet Nathaniel Pierino as acting chairman, rejecting Regina Joseph Kaba’s move to suspend him amid a widening internal leadership dispute. Border Security & Justice: Kajo-Keji (South Sudan) and Moyo (Uganda) agreed to jointly identify, arrest and prosecute suspects behind cross-border cattle raids and violence, after cattle were recovered and arrests began. Regional Diplomacy: South Sudan and Ethiopia agreed to launch a joint probe into the killing of Ethiopian UN peacekeepers in Jonglei, alongside plans to strengthen cross-border security. Power Shortages: South Sudan is seeking to revive a stalled Russia energy deal, discussing technical steps with the Russian ambassador to expand hydropower and related infrastructure. Security Crisis in Warrap: An attack on an SSPDF barracks in Acong-cong, Warrap, killed 16 soldiers, six police and four civilians, with a state of emergency declared and investigations launched. Wildlife & Land Policy: The Land Use Planning committee urged parliament to align the national land policy with wildlife and protected areas laws, pushing for faster wildlife legislation. Elections Pressure: A US lawmaker urged Washington to take a stronger role in ending South Sudan’s political and military crisis, citing billions in US aid and continued conflict.

Security & Elections Pressure: Armed youths attacked an SSPDF barracks in Acong-cong, Warrap State, killing at least 26 people (10 soldiers, 6 police, 4 civilians including an 11-year-old) and wounding eight; Warrap says investigations are underway and a state of emergency was declared. Constitutional & Vote Readiness: Youth leaders say South Sudan moved fast on constitutional changes for December elections, but now must match that speed with funding and security guarantees for election institutions. Diplomacy & Border Stability: South Sudan and Ethiopia agreed to launch a joint investigation into the killing of Ethiopian UN peacekeepers in Jonglei, alongside plans to curb cross-border criminal groups. Humanitarian & Returnees: Cabinet approved $26.5m to repatriate about 20,000 vulnerable South Sudanese stranded in Egypt, covering transport, documentation, reception and reintegration support. Energy Policy: South Sudan seeks to revive a stalled Russia energy deal to address electricity shortages, including hydropower and technology transfer. Local Governance & Conservation: Juba’s land policy talks urge lawmakers to integrate wildlife conservation laws into the national land policy ahead of protected-area demarcation.

Warrap Security Crisis: Armed youths attacked an SSPDF barracks in Acong-cong, Warrap, killing at least 26 (including 10 soldiers, six police and four civilians, among them an 11-year-old) and wounding eight; six attackers were also killed, and authorities launched investigations after declaring an emergency and calling for more national support. Elections Readiness Push: Youth leaders say the government moved fast on constitutional changes for December 2026 polls, but must now match that speed with funding and security guarantees for voters; meanwhile the AU Peace and Security Council reiterated the transitional period must end in February 2027 without extensions. Public Communication Under Scrutiny: President Salva Kiir ordered urgent reforms at the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation ahead of elections, demanding stronger professionalism and effectiveness. Regional Diplomacy: South Sudan and Ethiopia agreed to a joint probe into the killing of Ethiopian UN peacekeepers in Jonglei and to strengthen cross-border security mechanisms. Humanitarian Pressure: WFP warned of funding shortfalls that could cut food aid to 400,000 refugees and IDPs after September distributions, with rainy-season delivery risks making the situation worse. Money & State Capacity: Government signed a currency management MoU with De La Rue to improve planning, quality control and circulation of the South Sudanese Pound. Wildlife & Land Policy: The Land Use Planning committee urged parliament to align the national land policy with conservation and protected areas laws, pushing for faster wildlife legislation.

Elections Readiness: South Sudan’s constitutional amendment for December 2026 polls was rushed through and assented to in 24 hours, but youth leaders warn the government must match that speed with real funding and security guarantees for voters. Public Broadcasting: President Salva Kiir ordered urgent reforms at the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) to fix operational problems ahead of elections. Government Response to Stranded Nationals: Cabinet approved $26.5m to repatriate and reintegrate about 20,000 vulnerable South Sudanese in Egypt, with a delegation expected to coordinate with Egyptian authorities. Currency Management: Juba signed a currency management MoU with De La Rue to improve planning, quality control, and circulation of the South Sudanese Pound. Local Security & Violence: Warrap State reported an attack on an SSPDF barracks in Acong-cong that killed at least 26 people, including soldiers, police, and civilians. Border Tensions: Uganda and South Sudan agreed to identify, arrest and prosecute individuals behind recent Moyo border violence linked to a cattle dispute. Humanitarian Pressure: WFP warned food cuts could hit 400,000 refugees and IDPs after September distributions due to funding shortfalls. Regional Conflict Watch: UN reporting says foreign networks are helping fuel Sudan’s war, including alleged Ethiopian links and foreign contractors tied to the RSF. Sudan Frontline Clashes: In South Kordofan, SPLM-N-aligned forces were blamed for attacks around Kauda that killed at least 21 people, including children, and violated a ceasefire initiative.

Security & Violence: Warrap State mourns 26 killed in an early-morning attack on an SSPDF barracks in Acong-cong, with authorities saying motives are still unclear and arrests are being pursued. Humanitarian Response: The Council of Ministers approved $26.5m to repatriate and reintegrate about 20,000 vulnerable South Sudanese stranded in Egypt, while WFP warns funding gaps could cut food aid to 400,000 refugees and IDPs after September distributions. Elections & Rights Oversight: UN human rights experts led by Yasmin Sooka will visit South Sudan from Sept 7–10 to assess worsening rights, displacement, and the peace process as the country pushes toward its first national elections since 2011. Governance & Institutions: President Salva Kiir ordered urgent action to fix challenges at the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation as the SSBC managing director faces a board dispute over removal. Economy & Currency: Bank of South Sudan signs a deal with De La Rue to strengthen currency management and boost confidence in the South Sudanese Pound amid ongoing cash shortages. Justice & Social Protection: A Juba court convicted a father for gouging out his daughter’s eyes over an arranged marriage refusal, underscoring the push to tackle gender-based violence.

Elections & Governance: South Sudan’s election path got clearer as President Salva Kiir assented to constitutional amendments removing the permanent constitution-making process and the national census as pre-conditions for the 22 December 2026 polls, while the National Elections Commission began training voter registration officials across states and administrative areas. Media & State Capacity: Kiir also ordered urgent action to fix South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation challenges as the SSBC managing director and board clash over removal. UN Human Rights Watch: UN human rights experts will visit South Sudan from 7–10 September to assess worsening rights, humanitarian and security conditions amid renewed fighting and election pressure. Urban Management: Central Equatoria Governor Adil declared Saturdays city-wide cleaning days in Juba, pushing waste control, tree planting and stronger enforcement. Currency & Economy: The Bank of South Sudan signed a deal with De La Rue to strengthen currency management and technical support, as cash shortages continue. Party Politics: SPLM Youth League launched a grassroots mobilization drive ahead of elections. Public Safety: Juba County moved to suspend illegal boda-boda associations, and Buluk Playground activities are being regulated to protect school learning and sanitation. Regional/Conflict Context: UN reports foreign networks are fueling Sudan’s war, and separate reports describe deadly clashes in Sudan’s South Kordofan.

Constitutional Path to Elections: President Salva Kiir assented to the Transitional Constitution (Amendment No. 13) Act, delinking the permanent constitution-making process and the national census from the 22 December 2026 vote, clearing key legal hurdles for elections. Election Readiness: The National Elections Commission began training voter registration officials across the ten states and three administrative areas, urging inclusive registration and large turnout. Public Media Power Struggle: Kiir ordered urgent action on South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation challenges as SSBC board moves to suspend MD John Madol Panther, who says the board lacks power to remove him. SPLM Mobilisation: Kiir endorsed SPLM Youth League’s grassroots reorganization drive to rebuild structures from national level down to bomas ahead of December elections. Security & Governance: Juba County suspended illegal boda-boda associations for operating without authorisation, while Central Equatoria approved a draft 108.2bn SSP budget for 2026-2027. Health & Regional Spillover: WHO says Ebola responders in eastern DRC are using anonymized mobile-phone movement data to predict spread as cases pass 6,250; separate UN-backed Sudan probe warns foreign fighters and networks are fuelling the war. Community Life: Juba City Council and stakeholders agreed to regulate Buluk Playground activities during school hours to protect students’ learning and sanitation.

Elections & Constitutional Reform: President Salva Kiir assented to Constitutional Amendment No. 13, delinking December 2026 national elections from the permanent constitution process and the population census—clearing a key legal hurdle for the Dec. 22 vote. AU Peace & Dialogue: The AU Peace and Security Council urged South Sudan’s leaders to resume direct political dialogue without preconditions, fast-track the Hybrid Court and the Truth, Reconciliation and Healing Commission, and push security reforms to protect the ceasefire. Election Funding Crunch: The AU called on donors to close a major December elections funding gap, warning the NEC still faces large shortfalls despite limited government contributions. Public Service Tech: ICT Minister Ateny Wek Ateny met Huawei’s VP in Hangzhou, signaling plans to modernise and connect public services and expand “smart city” and national data initiatives. Media Capacity: MTN, the University of Johannesburg and the African Editors’ Forum launched the first cohort of the MTN Pan-African Media Innovation Programme, including South Sudanese journalists. Governance & Regulation: Juba County suspended “illegal” boda-boda associations for operating without authorization, while Central Equatoria security organs were tasked to identify unauthorised revenue collectors. Humanitarian & Climate: UNICEF warned El Niño risks could affect 162 million children across eastern and southern Africa, with South Sudan facing drought, heat and flooding that could worsen malnutrition and disease outbreaks. Health Security: WHO-backed teams in eastern DRC are using anonymised mobile-phone data to map Ebola spread and anticipate where cases may emerge next. Diplomacy: South Sudan’s Embassy in Cairo apologized after the national flag was displayed upside down during a bilateral meeting. Regional Infrastructure: South Sudan and Kenya agreed to mobilise resources for the Juba–Torit–Nadapal highway to improve trade links to Mombasa.