Presidential Decree Reshapes Jonglei Cabinet
President Salva Kiir issued a Wednesday evening decree reshuffling Jonglei State’s cabinet, bringing eight new faces into key portfolios and naming a fresh Bor County commissioner. The move marks the first adjustment since Governor Riek Gai Kok took office in March 2025.
Those relieved include ministers for cabinet affairs, finance, education, animal resources, housing, health and labour, alongside Bor’s commissioner. Justice Kuony Yien Nyuon, Donge Gai Donge and six other SPLM figures step into the vacated posts.
Leaked Document Aligns with Final Line-Up
A leaked list dated 5 August circulated on social media before the decree, triggering public debate. Despite calls for revision, the final announcement matched the leak word for word, suggesting the presidency stood by its initial selections.
Residents Demand Inclusive Service Delivery
In Bor, resident Ayuen Deng Kelei welcomed the “long-awaited” change but urged the newcomers to prioritise roads, schools and hospitals. He cautioned against recycling officials from the same locality, arguing that every payam deserves a turn at county leadership.
Opiew Opiew Gilo echoed the sentiment, insisting the appointees “work as a team” to deliver basic services, peace and development for a state still grappling with floods and communal violence.
Gender Quota Praised, Diversity Gap Persists
Women’s rights advocate Kenya Maxh applauded the selection of two female ministers, aligning with South Sudan’s 35-percent gender quota. Yet she noted lingering discontent in northern Bor, where residents say commissioner posts rarely rotate to their communities.
Activists Caution Against Public Backlash
Civil society leader Bol Deng Bol described the reshuffle as “a relief” after months of speculation but warned that perceived unilateral decisions could spark renewed street protests, a pattern previously seen in the state capital.