Marat Kambolov holds a commanding lead in the South Ossetia presidential election market due to his position as acting president and prime minister since June 2026, following Alan Gagloev’s resignation to join Vladimir Putin’s advisory team. Major political parties controlling most parliamentary seats, along with several former presidents, have endorsed his candidacy for the September 18 vote. A May 2026 bilateral treaty with Russia facilitating cross-holding of official posts, combined with anticipated adjustments to the 10-year residency rule, further strengthens his path. As of late August, election authorities registered only four candidates, including Kambolov, after rejecting others. Late registration of additional contenders or shifts in parliamentary support remain the primary variables that could alter the current trader consensus.