The Vice President of South Sudan is the deputy head of state who ranks immediately below the President. The office combines ceremonial duties with constitutional responsibilities such as assisting the President, standing in during incapacity or absence, and representing the presidency in domestic and international matters. The post has taken on heightened political significance because it frequently serves as a seat in negotiated power‑sharing arrangements.
Functions and responsibilities
Specific powers and duties are set by the Transitional Constitution and by presidential decree. Typical functions include:
- Acting for the President when required.
- Coordinating government policy or particular ministries to which the Vice President is assigned.
- Participating in the national cabinet and in peace implementation bodies.
In practice the role may be primarily political, used to balance competing parties, regions, or ethnic constituencies within the executive.
Selection and political role
The Vice President is appointed as part of the executive leadership. Appointment and the number of vice presidential posts have varied with peace agreements and transitional arrangements: at times a single vice presidency has existed, while other settlements have created a First Vice President or multiple vice presidents to accommodate coalition partners. The office therefore often functions as a tool for inclusion and for implementing ceasefire and power‑sharing deals.
History and development
Since South Sudan became independent in 2011 the vice presidency has evolved in response to political crises and negotiated settlements. A notable change occurred in August 2015 when a temporary position of First Vice President was created as part of an agreement intended to end conflict. Subsequent revitalized agreements further altered the structure of the executive to distribute authority among several vice presidents during transition periods.
Notable figures who have held vice presidential posts include James Wani Igga and Riek Machar, both of whom have featured prominently in South Sudan’s recent power‑sharing arrangements. The office remains central to efforts to stabilize governance and implement peace deals.
For constitutional text and official descriptions, see the South Sudanese government resources and transitional agreements that define the exact composition and duties of the vice presidential posts.