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South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has dismissed two of his five vice presidents and the head of the National Security Service, prompting widespread discussion on the country’s leadership direction.
The announcement came through a presidential decree read on national television on Monday evening. Vice Presidents James Wani Igga and Hussein Abdelbagi Akol were relieved of their duties, while businessman and longtime ally of Kiir, Benjamin Bol Mel, was elevated to the position of vice president overseeing the economic cluster. Additionally, Josephine Joseph Lagu, who previously served as Minister of Agriculture, was appointed as vice president responsible for public services.
Another significant change was the removal of National Security Service (NSS) chief Akech Tong Aleu, who had only been in the position since October last year. However, no immediate replacement was named in the decree, leaving questions about the agency’s future leadership.
Although the presidential order did not provide specific reasons for these dismissals, analysts believe the reshuffle is part of President Kiir’s broader plan to consolidate power and position trusted figures in key roles as South Sudan prepares for its long-awaited general elections, now expected in late 2026.
Benjamin Bol Mel’s promotion has drawn particular attention. A well-known businessman with strong ties to Kiir, his appointment is widely seen as a move to ensure economic policies remain under the president’s close watch.
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Meanwhile, Josephine Joseph Lagu’s appointment brings a familiar political name back into South Sudan’s leadership, as her father, Joseph Lagu, previously served as vice president of Sudan before South Sudan’s independence.
This leadership shake-up comes at a crucial time for the young nation, which has faced years of political turbulence and security challenges. Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has struggled with internal conflicts, economic difficulties, and efforts to fully implement the 2018 peace agreement, which aimed to stabilize the government through a power-sharing model involving multiple vice presidents.
The reshuffle has sparked mixed reactions from political analysts and the public. Some see it as a strategic move to strengthen President Kiir’s administration, while others worry that changes at such a high level could create further uncertainty within the government. The international community continues to closely monitor South Sudan’s political landscape, urging the government to remain committed to peace and stability as the country moves toward elections.
