JUBA – South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has ordered the extension of the current parliamentary session to allow lawmakers to address urgent national issues, including the pending fiscal year budget for 2025-2026.
The President issued the directive following a meeting with the Speakers of the National Assembly, Jemma Nunu Kumba, and the Council of States, Mary Ayen Mijok, on Monday.
Speaker Jemma Nunu confirmed to the press that lawmakers will break for the Christmas holidays but are scheduled to reconvene on January 5th, 2026.
On December 17th, Nunu had revealed that parliament leadership sought clarification from President Kiir regarding their holiday recess.
According to the parliamentary calendar, members of parliament were expected to begin their recess in mid-December, but the break was contingent upon approval from the President.
Speaker Nunu explained that the expected delay in the recess was due to the need to finalize the fiscal year 2025-2026 budget.
“We are aware that according to our calendar, we were supposed to begin our recess this week, but as per our resolution, we must first consult with His Excellency the President,” Nunu said.
“Once we complete the consultation, we will communicate the decision to the members. It’s clear that the recess will be extended to allow for the budget to be presented and reviewed,” she added.