A Dramatic Dismissal
In a stunning political shake-up, President Salva Kiir Mayardit has officially dismissed Vice President Benjamin Bol Mel from his government post, expelled him from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM), and stripped him of his military rank, demoting him from General to private citizen.
24 Hours of Confusion and Coup Rumors
The announcement follows 24 hours of chaos, confusion, and conflicting reports circulating on social media, online outlets, and among sources close to the government in Juba. Throughout the day, rumors spread online suggesting that the Presidency had interpreted Bol Mel’s recent actions — including alleged plans to alter the structure of the President’s protection unit — as early warning signs of a potential coup attempt. According to these reports, the Presidency responded by placing the Vice President under the custody of military personnel operating under direct presidential orders.
Official Confirmation of the Dismissal
Multiple government and security insiders confirmed late Thursday that President Kiir signed a decree removing Benjamin Bol Mel from his position as Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan, dismissing him from his role as SPLM Deputy Chairman and terminating his party membership. The decree also ordered his removal from the rosters of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the National Security Service, with his rank of General revoked and downgraded to private, effectively restoring him to civilian status.
Allegations and Internal Power Struggles
The dismissal marks the culmination of one of the most turbulent episodes in the nation’s recent political history. Over the past two days, Bol Mel’s name has been linked to allegations of misconduct, corruption, and internal divisions within the ruling elite.
Security Council Consultations
The President’s decision reportedly came after a series of consultations with the National Security Council and Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Paul Ngang Majok, who is believed to have placed Bol Mel under house arrest earlier today.
Silence from Bol Mel’s Office
As of this evening, no official statement has been issued by Bol Mel or his representatives. However, government officials maintain that the President’s decision is final and that Bol Mel now holds no political or military authority.
Summary of Presidential Decrees Announced Today on SSBC
According to decrees read this evening on South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC), President Salva Kiir has undertaken a sweeping reshuffle at the top of government and party structures:
Benjamin Bol Mel was relieved from his position as Vice President, removed from his role as SPLM.
First Deputy Chairman, and demoted from General to Private, effectively dismissed from the National Security Service.
Paul Logale was removed from his duties as SPLM Secretary General, replaced by Akol Paul Kordit.
Addis Ababa Othow was dismissed as Governor of the Bank of South Sudan, with Yeni Samuel Costa appointed as the new Governor.
Simon Akuei was relieved of his position as Commissioner General of the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA) and replaced by William Anyuon Kuol.
A Message of Discipline and Control
The move is seen as a clear message from President Kiir that discipline and loyalty remain non-negotiable within the country’s leadership. Analysts warn the firing could reshape the power dynamics within the security establishment, where rival factions have long competed for influence.
A Nation on Edge
The political atmosphere in Juba remains tense as the government seeks to project stability amid mounting questions over governance, corruption, and the fragile balance of power at the top.