New Cabinet Members Take Oath in Juba
Smiles and cautious applause filled the Freedom Hall in Juba as President Salva Kiir placed Bibles and Korans in the hands of five newly appointed ministers and senior executives on Monday, sealing their oath of office before cameras and lawmakers.
The group includes East African Community Affairs Minister Pieng Deng Kuol, Wildlife Conservation and Tourism Minister Denay Jock Chagor, Transport Minister Rizik Zachariah Hassan, Deputy Defence Minister James Koang Chuol and Upper Nile Governor Jacob Dollar Ruot.
President Kiir’s Call for Unified Progress
Addressing the ceremony, Kiir described the appointments as “a call to duty” and warned that personal ambition must never override South Sudan’s collective interest (Eye Radio).
He tasked the officials with strengthening the national army, advancing reconciliation among communities and driving development that reaches every payam, declaring that unity remains the cornerstone of stability.
Security, Economy and Aviation Reform Prioritised
Kiir also supervised the swearing-in of Samuel Yanga Mikaya as Chair of the Civil Aviation Authority board and renewed the mandate of non-executive directors at the Bank of South Sudan, signalling attention to safer skies and financial prudence.
The president urged aviation managers to digitise services to meet international standards, a move experts say could lower insurance costs and boost regional tourism.
Officials Promise Service Delivery
SPLM Third Deputy Chairman Simon Kun Puoch reminded the appointees that the constitution, not party loyalty, will judge their performance, adding that citizens are impatient for roads, schools and reliable security.
Speaking to reporters, Kuol pledged “consistent engagement with East African partners for trade opportunities,” while Chagor vowed to protect wildlife corridors that underpin eco-tourism revenues.
With parliament expected to scrutinise policy plans in the coming weeks, analysts argue that swift coordination among the newcomers could reassure investors still wary after past instability.