Elections & Peace Process: South Sudan’s Transitional National Legislature has ratified controversial amendments to the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, deferring the national population and housing census and the permanent constitution-making process until after the December 2026 general elections—clearing major legal hurdles for the National Elections Commission and political parties to speed up preparations. Civil Service Pay: The government says civil servants’ and organized forces’ salaries are now being processed and paid in phases, with some ministries and states already receiving at least one month’s pay. Border Trade & Security: Greater Pibor and Ethiopia agreed in Addis Ababa to strengthen cross-border trade, improve border security, and curb illegal trade by fully implementing the Border Trade Protocol. Economic & Governance Debate: An opinion piece argues South Sudan’s economic crisis is turning into a crisis of state legitimacy, while another criticizes the growing role of Senior Presidential Envoy Adut Kiir. Humanitarian Safety: A deadly attack on a humanitarian aid convoy in Jonglei killed 17 people, including five John Dau Foundation staff, as injured survivors received urgent medical care. Public Health Watch: UN agencies warn Ebola in DR Congo could cost Africa up to $3.6bn and push hundreds of thousands more into poverty, with risks of spillover toward South Sudan. Culture & National Unity: The Minister of Culture launched a nationwide Independence Day flag-and-anthem campaign, urging celebrations across all states and communities.