Lawmakers in South Sudan on April 28, 2026, abruptly dropped a planned Parliamentary debate on proposed amendments to the 2018 peace agreement, citing unspecified “technical reasons.”
The amendments, approved by Cabinet on April 17, were intended to pave the way for elections scheduled for December 2026.
However, the process has triggered tensions between the government and the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC), which argues that required procedures were not followed. The opposition SPLM-IO, led by detained First Vice President Riek Machar, also criticized the process, saying it was excluded.
Under the peace agreement, amendments require approval from both the Council of Ministers and RJMEC before parliamentary ratification. Concerns have also been raised over proposals to remove key provisions affirming the supremacy of the peace deal over national laws.
While officials say the debate may resume once technical issues are resolved, some lawmakers suggest the delay reflects growing political pressure and ongoing consultations. Civil society groups have called for the amendment process to restart through RJMEC to ensure legitimacy and inclusiveness.