JUBA — South Sudan has been thrust into a new phase of political upheaval after President Salva Kiir Mayardit issued sweeping presidential decrees on Monday night, removing and replacing several senior government officials, security chiefs, and key figures inside the Office of the President. The shake-up, broadcast live on SSBC News and shared widely across social media, comes amid mounting public pressure, ongoing corruption scandals, and growing concerns over mismanagement of state resources, particularly in the petroleum and finance sectors.
The decrees announced the dismissal or reassignment of high-level figures across strategic institutions:
- Manut Yel Biar, Presidential Advisor on National Security Affairs, was relieved of his duties and replaced by Tut Gatluak Manime.
- Athian Ding Athian, Minister of Finance and Planning, was sacked and replaced with Dr. Bak Barnaba Chol.
- Amb. Chol Mawut Ajonga, Minister of Presidential Affairs, was relieved and replaced by Africano Mande Gidema.
- Eng. Deng Lual Wol, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Petroleum, was dismissed and replaced with Dr. Chol Thon Abel.
- Amb. Ajiing Deng Ajiing, Executive Director in the Office of the President, was relieved and reappointed Deng Wal Achien to the position.
- Maj. Valentino Baak Makuei was relieved as Commander of the Tiger Division and replaced with Lt. Gen. Phillip Nyon Nyon.
- Amb. Rita Kiden Lutua was assigned as South Sudan’s Ambassador to Rwanda.
No official explanation has been provided for the dismissals, but political and diplomatic observers note that the reshuffle follows weeks of public criticism and growing scrutiny of financial transparency in key ministries, especially the petroleum and finance portfolios.
The government has not yet commented on whether investigations will follow the dismissals. Reactions from political blocs, military commanders, and international partners are expected in the coming days.
This story is developing. More updates to follow.