South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit dismissed Vice Presidents James Wani Igga and Hussein Abdelbagi, as well as National Security Service head Akech Tong Aleu. New appointments include Benjamin Bol Mel and Josephine Lago Yang as vice presidents. The changes reflect ongoing political realignment in the context of the 2018 peace agreement.
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit has dismissed two vice presidents, James Wani Igga and Hussein Abdelbagi, as well as Akech Tong Aleu, the National Security Service head, as part of a presidential decree announced on the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation. This decision was made official on a Monday night and does not provide specific reasons for the dismissals.
In the wake of the dismissals, Benjamin Bol Mel has been appointed to succeed Wani Igga as vice president, representing the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM). Furthermore, Josephine Lago Yang has been appointed to take over the vice presidency from Abdelbagi, who had been in his position since 2020 under the revitalized peace agreement.
Wani Igga has been reassigned to the role of Secretary-General of the SPLM party following his removal from the vice presidency. Additionally, Charles Chiech Mayor, who previously served as Deputy Director General of the National Security Service, has been appointed as the acting director general. Aleu’s term was notably short, lasting only four months.
Under the 2018 peace agreement, South Sudan maintains a structure that includes five vice presidents. This political arrangement aims to promote inclusivity and representation within the government, although the recent changes may signal a shift in the political dynamics of the nation. The South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA), which Josephine Lago Yang chairs, will also play a critical role in the government’s new composition.
In conclusion, President Kiir’s recent dismissals and appointments reflect significant changes within South Sudan’s political framework. The introduction of new vice presidents aims to realign the governance structure under the SPLM and to enhance the representation of various political factions, particularly amid ongoing efforts to uphold the peace agreement.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
