List of Presidents of South Sudan: Past and Present

Last updated November 2026

This page lists the presidents and heads of state of South Sudan from 2011 to the present, with the years each leader was in office and a short summary of their time in power. Use it to find the current president of South Sudan, former presidents, and key dates in the country's political history.

Current president of South Sudan: Salva Kiir Mayardit (in office since 2011).

Presidents of South Sudan in order, with years in office

Salva Kiir Mayardit

Served: 2011–present

The country's only president since independence in 2011; he has said he will stand in the 22 December 2026 election, which would be the first national vote since independence.

Frequently asked questions about the presidents of South Sudan

Who is the current president of South Sudan?

The current head of state of South Sudan is Salva Kiir Mayardit, in office since 2011.

Who were the previous presidents of South Sudan?

The presidents and heads of state of South Sudan listed on this page, in order, are: Salva Kiir Mayardit.

Who was the first president of South Sudan?

Salva Kiir Mayardit was the first president of South Sudan, in office 2011–present.

Sources: Wikipedia, President of South Sudan; AFP, AP and Radio Tamazuj reports from 2024–2026 (checked Nov 2026). South Sudan has had one president since independence.. Last reviewed November 2026.

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