South Sudan President Salva Kiir has dissolved the transitional unity government and appointed a caretaker administration as the country moves toward its first national elections, scheduled for December 22. The decree removes all vice-presidents, ministers and local administrators and dissolves the national and state assemblies, while leaving the judiciary and security institutions in place. Kiir will remain president during the election period until his successor assumes office. The move followed parliament’s approval of amendments to the National Elections Act removing requirements to complete a permanent constitution and census before voting. The main opposition alliance rejected the changes, while analysts warned they give Kiir extensive or potentially unchecked authority. Key transition tasks, including voter registration and unifying rival armed forces, remain incomplete. Kiir’s longtime rival Riek Machar remains under house arrest and on trial, and security has been tightened in the capital, Juba.