Unity State Shake-Up Sparks Reactions
The abrupt dismissal of Mayiandit County Commissioner Marko Juong Magok aired on the state broadcaster SSBC surprised many Unity State residents.
Governor Riek Biem Top replaced the commissioner without formally consulting the National Democratic Movement, the group that nominated him under the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan.
Akol Questions Procedure and Motive
In a letter dated 22 November 2025, NDM chairman Dr. Lam Akol called the removal “a flagrant violation of R-ARCSS,” noting that the governor had never raised performance issues against Magok.
He further argued that presenting John Matip Gatluok as an NDM nominee, despite his known links to the SPLM-IG, amounted to political misrepresentation.
Governor’s Silence Intensifies Friction
Akol attempted to reach Governor Biem by phone for clarification; the governor reportedly responded briefly and then stopped communicating, according to the letter.
Analysts say such breakdowns in dialogue risk eroding trust among peace partners at a delicate pre-election moment.
Broader Implications for Peace Deal
The power-sharing formula assigns county posts to signatories proportionally; unilateral changes can prompt retaliatory measures and deepen insecurity.
Civil society observers urge expedited consultations to reaffirm commitments ahead of the planned national polls, warning that local disputes often echo nationally.
NDM’s Firm Demand
Dr. Akol insists the dismissal be revoked so Commissioner Magok can resume duties, describing the step as essential for sustaining the peace accord’s credibility.
Unity State authorities have yet to issue an official response, leaving the political temperature high in Bentiu.