South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has dismissed two vice-presidents, the head of intelligence, and other senior officials without providing reasons. This reshuffle follows a tumultuous political landscape shaped by a 2018 peace agreement. New appointments have raised questions about future governance, especially with elections postponed until 2026.
In a significant political reshuffle, South Sudan President Salva Kiir dismissed two vice-presidents and the country’s head of intelligence, along with other senior officials. The announcements were made through presidential decrees broadcasted on state media, although no specific reasons were provided for these personnel changes. The government structure includes five vice-presidents as a result of a peace agreement established in 2018 to resolve ongoing civil conflict.
Among those removed was James Wani Igga, a seasoned politician who has served as vice-president since 2013. He was also the deputy chair of the ruling SPLM party. Additionally, Hussein Abdelbagi Akol was relieved from his vice-presidential role but has since been appointed to the position of Minister of Agriculture, replacing Josephine Joseph Lagu, who has now transitioned into a vice-presidential role herself.
Benjamin Bol Mel, a figure previously implicated in corrupt activities and sanctioned by the United States in 2017, takes over from Igga as vice-president. Mel had been speculated as a potential candidate for succession to President Kiir. The presidency has yet to name replacements for the health minister and the governor of Western Equatoria, both of whom are affiliated with First Vice-President Riek Machar’s political faction.
The 2018 peace agreement grants President Kiir the authority to appoint and remove officials at both national and regional levels, although he requires party consent to dismiss individuals affiliated with other political parties. The silence from Machar’s SPLM-In Opposition regarding the recent dismissals raises questions about party dynamics and recommendations related to the health minister and governor’s removals.
Since its independence, South Sudan has not conducted national elections, with the first scheduled vote in 2015 postponed due to conflict. A subsequent election intended for 2022 also faced delays, with elections now scheduled for December 2026. As the country navigates its political landscape, the situation remains volatile and uncertain.
The recent dismissal of key leaders by President Kiir marks a notable shift in South Sudan’s political landscape amidst ongoing challenges. The appointments and removals are shaped by the 2018 peace agreement, which continues to govern the structure of leadership amid political tensions. With elections still years away, South Sudan must navigate its complex political dynamics to achieve stability and governance.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
