Presidential Decree Jolts Power-Sharing
A Thursday evening broadcast announced that President Kiir has relieved First Vice President Riek Machar and Petroleum Minister Puot Kang of their duties, pending judicial review (South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation).
Both leaders belong to the SPLM-IO, a signatory to the 2018 Revitalized Agreement, making the suspension politically sensitive.
Legal Basis for the Suspension
The Ministry of Justice confirmed that Machar and seven senior SPLM-IO figures will face trial over the March 2025 Nasir incident, though the charge sheet has not been released publicly.
Government lawyers argue that procedural fairness requires temporary suspension to prevent influence on upcoming hearings (Ministry of Justice statement).
Peace Deal Under Fresh Strain
Analysts note that the Revitalized Agreement envisioned collegial decision-making; sidelining its chief opposition partner may widen mistrust.
However, Information Minister Michael Makuei maintained that the decree respects both the letter and spirit of the accord, framing it as a judicial, not political, intervention.
Oil Sector Concerns
Puot Kang’s removal raises questions about continuity in the petroleum portfolio, which funds the majority of state revenue.
A senior official at Nilepet said contingency plans exist to keep exports steady, aiming to reassure investors wary of prolonged disruptions.
Regional and Diplomatic Echoes
The Inter-Governmental Authority on Development is reportedly seeking clarifications, while Nairobi and Addis Ababa have called for calm in separate statements.
Machar’s office has yet to issue an official response, but aides privately insist the suspension is temporary and dialogue remains possible.