President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan dismissed Vice Presidents James Wani Igga and Hussein Abdelbagi, along with National Security Service Chief Akech Tong Aleu. New appointments include Benjamin Bol Mel and Josephine Lago Yang. Wani Igga will serve as Secretary-General of the SPLM. These changes occur within the context of South Sudan’s political structure established by the 2018 peace agreement.
On Monday evening, President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan announced the dismissal of Vice Presidents James Wani Igga and Hussein Abdelbagi, along with the National Security Service Chief Akech Tong Aleu, in a decree broadcasted on South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation. This decision marks a significant shift in the country’s leadership structure after a period of political stability following the 2018 peace agreement.
Following these dismissals, President Kiir appointed Benjamin Bol Mel to assume the vice presidency position previously held by Wani Igga, representing the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM). Additionally, Josephine Lago Yang has been appointed to replace Abdelbagi, who served in his role since the revitalized peace agreement was established.
As part of the restructuring, Wani Igga has been reassigned to serve as the Secretary-General of the SPLM party. Charles Chiech Mayor, previously the Deputy Director General of the National Security Service, has been appointed as the acting director general following Aleu’s dismissal, who only held his position for four months without any stated reason for his removal.
It is notable that South Sudan’s political framework includes five vice presidents, a structure put in place by the peace agreement of 2018. This arrangement aims to ensure diverse representation within the government, but the recent changes highlight the ongoing volatility in the country’s political landscape.
In summary, President Salva Kiir’s recent dismissal of two vice presidents and the National Security Service chief indicates a significant shift in South Sudan’s leadership. The newly appointed figures reflect the continuation of the SPLM’s governing structure and the ongoing efforts to stabilize the political atmosphere in the country. The restructuring underscores South Sudan’s commitment to maintaining its peace agreement framework, despite the inherent challenges.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
