Elections & Peace Deal: South Sudan’s Transitional National Legislature approved amendments to the 2018 revitalized peace agreement, de-linking the census and permanent constitution-making from the electoral roadmap and clearing the way for general elections in December 2026. SPLM Leadership & Party Politics: President Salva Kiir said the changes remove delays so citizens can vote sooner, while the NCP announced it will back Kiir for the presidency and focus on parliamentary seats; the NCP also replaced its secretary general ahead of elections. Security Readiness: CTSAMVM warned that delays in implementing the peace deal’s transitional security arrangements could undermine election preparations, citing ongoing localized violence and armed group activity. Civil Society & Independence Day: Civil society groups urged parties to stop violence and embrace reconciliation ahead of the 15th Independence Day celebrations, while the culture ministry called for nationwide observance across states. Regional Health Crisis (Ebola): DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak has killed more than 400 and spread to a fourth province near the South Sudan border, raising fears of spillover into South Sudan and wider economic damage across Africa. Economy & Trade: South Sudan and Ethiopia agreed to strengthen border trade and security cooperation, including implementing the border trade protocol to boost legal commerce. Public Service Payments: Government says civil servants’ salaries and organized forces’ pay are being processed and paid in phases across the country.