South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir dismissed three ministers amid ongoing political tensions threatening the unity government. This reshuffle follows violent events in Nasir, including attacks on UN personnel, prompting calls for stability and peace from the international community.
On Monday evening, South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir conducted a cabinet reshuffle, dismissed three ministers amidst lingering political unrest threatening the unity government established under a 2018 peace agreement. This agreement was crucial for ending the country’s five-year civil conflict, as reported by News.az, which cites Xinhua.
In this recent decree, aired by the state-owned South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation, Ruben Madol Arol was removed as the minister of justice and constitutional affairs, with Wek Mamer Kuol appointed as his successor. Awut Deng Acuil was dismissed from her role as minister of general education and instruction, with Kuyok Abol Kuyok expected to fill this position. Additionally, Joseph Mum Majak was relieved of his duties as minister of trade and industry.
Both Ministers Deng and Madol have held their positions since 2020, while Majak’s appointment occurred much more recently in July 2024. Notably, President Kiir has not disclosed specific reasons for these cabinet changes.
This reshuffle comes following escalating violence in Nasir, including a disturbing incident on March 7, where a United Nations aircraft was attacked, resulting in the fatalities of UN personnel and numerous soldiers. The global community is urging all South Sudanese parties to facilitate a transition towards stability and peace, emphasizing the importance of avoiding a return to chaos.
Tensions have heightened recently in Nasir, a strategic area, since March 3, leading to the detention of senior officials from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-In Opposition (SPLM/A-IO) affiliated with First Vice-President Riek Machar. Reports indicate that over 20 individuals have been killed, with many others injured in the vicinity of Nasir, on the border between South Sudan and Ethiopia.
In summary, the recent dismissal of three South Sudanese ministers by President Salva Kiir reflects the ongoing political strife that jeopardizes the existing unity government. This reshuffle, coupled with escalating violence in Nasir, signifies a troubling period for the nation as it strives to maintain peace and stability. The international community continues to advocate for resolution and prevention of further chaos.
Original Source: news.az
