The Office of the President continues to drive the national agenda under the leadership of H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit. This latest engagement reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to advancing South Sudan’s developmental and peace objectives as the nation prepares for its upcoming democratic transition.

JUBA, September 21, 2026 — His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Monday swore in Hon. Gabriel Bol Deng Majok as the new Chairperson of the National Elections Commission (NEC), placing an experienced member of the Commission at its helm as South Sudan prepares for the December 2026 elections.

During the swearing-in ceremony, President Kiir paid tribute to the outgoing NEC Chairperson, Professor Abednego Akok Kacuol, thanking him for his years of service to the nation.

“Prof. Abednego Akok was a very good friend to me, and we worked together in the service of our nation. I thank him for his dedicated service to the people of South Sudan and wish him well,” President Kiir said.

The President of the Republic urged the new Chairperson to build on the work already undertaken by the Commission and strengthen preparations for elections that are free, fair and credible. He also reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to providing the support necessary for the NEC to carry out its constitutional mandate.

Hon. Gabriel Bol Deng Majok brings significant institutional experience to his new role. For the past one year and eleven months, he has served as Secretary-General of the National Elections Commission, working closely with the Commission’s leadership and commissioners on the ongoing electoral preparations. In that capacity, he has been directly involved in the Commission’s administrative and operational work, including electoral infrastructure, civic and voter education, and coordination with state electoral authorities.

Having also served the country in different capacities in public service, his experience, professionalism and knowledge of the Commission’s ongoing work provide continuity as the electoral process enters an important stage. His appointment elevates an official who is already familiar with the Commission’s structures, responsibilities and preparations for the elections.

The appointment was also welcomed by his fellow commissioners, who celebrated his elevation and expressed their support for the new Chairperson. They thanked His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit for appointing a leader from within the Commission at a time when teamwork, institutional continuity and collective leadership are important as preparations move forward.

In his remarks, Hon. Gabriel Bol Deng Majok pledged to lead the National Elections Commission with independence, impartiality, transparency, professionalism and integrity.

“Under my leadership, the National Elections Commission will discharge its mandate with independence, impartiality, transparency, professionalism and integrity,” he said.

The new NEC Chairperson said the Commission would work toward an inclusive, peaceful and credible electoral process in which every eligible South Sudanese has an opportunity to participate regardless of geography, gender, disability, social status or political affiliation.

He also pledged to work closely with his fellow commissioners and strengthen engagement with political parties, civil society, communities and other electoral stakeholders as preparations advance.

The leadership transition comes as the NEC continues its preparations for the December elections, including preparations for voter registration, civic and voter education, training of electoral officials and strengthening its structures across the country.

President Kiir reaffirmed that the government will continue supporting the independent work of the National Elections Commission as it carries out its mandate and prepares the people of South Sudan to exercise their democratic rights through elections.

— Analysis and additional reporting by Juba Global News Network.