Political Reshuffle in Juba
President Salva Kiir shook South Sudan’s political landscape by replacing four senior SPLM-IO lawmakers in the transitional legislature on 16 April, arguing the move would “invigorate parliamentary performance,” according to a statement read on state television.
The reshuffle removed First Deputy Speaker Oyet Nathaniel, Council of States Speaker Deng Deng Akon, chief whip Faruk Gatkuoth and secretary general Regina Kaba, all close allies of detained First Vice-President Dr. Riek Machar.
Opposition Voices React
SPLM-IO representative to the United States, Isaac K. Gang, labelled the dismissals “the final nail in the coffin of the Revitalized Peace Agreement,” warning the party could soon pronounce the deal defunct if unilateral decisions continue (SPLM-IO press statement).
Oyet Nathaniel posted a terse message on social media: “You will hear from us. Aluta continua; victory is certain,” signalling readiness for political confrontation rather than quiet acquiescence.
Civil Society Raises Alarm
Community Empowerment for Progress Organization director Edmond Yakani called the timing “particularly unfortunate,” arguing it undermines inclusivity precisely when the African Union Peace and Security Council is urging reconciliation (CEPO interview).
Yakani stressed that dismissing rivals without consultation promotes zero-sum politics, erodes public trust and could embolden hard-liners who favour confrontation over dialogue.
Regional Diplomacy at Work
The African Union delegation arrived in Juba hours after the shake-up, privately urging both SPLM-IG and SPLM-IO to recommit to the 2018 accord. IGAD envoys also pushed for an emergency meeting, diplomats familiar with the talks confirmed.
Observers note that guarantors have limited leverage but can facilitate security guarantees, allowing exiled opposition legislators to return for debate rather than remote protest.
What Lies Ahead
Analysts suggest the coming weeks will determine whether the reshuffle becomes a footnote or a flashpoint. Restoring confidence may require joint statements, swift replacement of removed officials through consensual processes, and visible progress on delayed constitution drafting.
Ordinary citizens, exhausted by cycles of conflict, are watching closely. “We want food prices down, not new quarrels at the top,” said Juba street vendor Mary Lado, capturing nationwide fatigue and the high stakes of elite manoeuvres.