Sudden Decree Fuels Capital Chatter
Juba woke on Thursday to news that President Salva Kiir had, by late-night decree, relieved Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel of the vice-presidency, his SPLM post and even his security service ranks, without public explanation.
A Remarkably Thankful Letter
Within hours, Bol Mel circulated a two-page letter that opened with unreserved gratitude for what he called “one of the greatest honours” of his life.
He praised Kiir’s steady leadership, affirmed loyalty to the SPLM and expressed confidence that the country “will continue to rise” under the president’s stewardship despite the reshuffle.
Economic Gains Claimed by Bol Mel
Bol Mel’s note listed initiatives begun during his eight-month tenure: courting foreign investors, widening non-oil revenues and digitalising public accounts to boost transparency.
Independent economists acknowledge modest upticks in customs receipts and pilot e-governance tools but caution that structural reforms remain embryonic.
Leadership Dynamics within SPLM
The dismissal intensified speculation over factional contests inside the ruling party, yet officials insist the changes are routine and aimed at “strengthening implementation efficiency”.
Political analyst Abraham Duku notes that Kiir often rotates allies to balance ethnic representation and prevent personality-driven enclaves, a pattern echoed throughout the region.
What Next for South Sudan’s Reform Agenda
Government spokespersons say a successor to Bol Mel will be named soon, with instructions to accelerate diversification beyond crude exports.
Young entrepreneurs in Juba voice hope that policy continuity survives the shake-up, arguing that investor confidence hinges on stable economic messaging.