President Salva Kiir Mayardit has announced a major reshuffle of his cabinet and security leadership, introducing new faces into government while relieving several senior officials.
The changes affect key ministries, state governments, and the security sector, and come at a critical time as South Sudan continues to struggle with the implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement ahead of the anticipated general elections scheduled for December.
In the latest decrees read on state television, President Kiir relieved Hon. Dak Duop Bichiok from his position as Minister of Public Service and Human Resource Development. He appointed Ezekiel Lol Gatkuoth as his replacement.
One of the most significant changes was the removal of Hon. Angelina Teny from the Ministry of Interior. Hon. Teny is a prominent member of the SPLM-IO and the wife of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar.
President Kiir appointed the controversial former Governor of Warrap State, Gen. Aleu Ayieny Aleu, as the new Minister of Interior, a move that has already sparked political debate.
In the Ministry of Labour, Hon. James Hoth Mai was relieved of his duties and replaced by Anthony Lino Makan, the former Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly.
The President also made changes in the Ministry of Culture, Museums, and National Heritage, relieving Hon. Nadia Arop and appointing Hon. Sarah Nyanath Elijah. Ms. Elijah is a well-known civil society leader and a signatory to the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, a move seen by some observers as an effort to bring civil society voices into government.
At the state level, President Kiir dismissed the Governor of Lakes State, Gen. Ring Tueny Mabor, despite being previously recognized for stabilizing the state. He was replaced by Madhang Majok Meen. In Upper Nile State, Deputy Governor Deng Joh was also relieved of his position and replaced by Deng Akuei Kat.
Changes were also announced within the security sector. President Kiir relieved Gen. Thoi Chany Reat from his position as Director General of the General Intelligence Bureau and appointed Abraham Keat Bichiok as his successor.
President Kiir expressed appreciation to the outgoing officials for their service to the nation, wishing them well in their future endeavors.
Political analysts say the reshuffle comes at a delicate moment for South Sudan, as the country faces mounting political, economic, and security challenges. With key provisions of the peace agreement yet to be fully implemented, the changes are expected to have implications for power-sharing arrangements and preparations for the long-awaited general elections.
