On February 10, 2025, South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir sacked Vice President James Wani Igga, replacing him with Benjamin Bol Mel. Josephine Lagu was appointed as the new Vice President for services, succeeding Hussein Abdelbagi Akol. Kiir also dismissed the Health Minister and altered leadership within the security sector, emphasizing ongoing political changes in the country.
On February 10, 2025, President Salva Kiir of South Sudan dismissed Vice President James Wani Igga, who had held the position for an extended period, appointing Benjamin Bol Mel as his successor. This announcement was made public through the state-owned South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SBBC). In a move to solidify his political base, Kiir appointed Igga as the Secretary General of the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM).
In a separate decree, Josephine Lagu was appointed as the Vice President for the services cluster, replacing Hussein Abdelbagi Akol. Both Akol and Lagu are associated with the South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA), a coalition of various political parties. Additionally, President Kiir appointed Akol as the Minister of Agriculture.
Furthermore, Kiir relieved General Akech Tong Aleu from his position as head of the Internal Security Bureau of the National Security Service, designating General Charles Chiek Mayo as the acting replacement while a permanent successor is sought. General Aleu was previously appointed to this role in October 2024.
President Kiir also dismissed Health Minister Yolanda Awel Deng, who represented the armed opposition faction, Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In Opposition (SPLM-IO). Notably, no immediate replacement was announced for this critical position.
In additional appointments, Tut Gatluak Manime, who was recently designated as the presidential envoy to the Middle East, has been named South Sudan’s Ambassador to Kuwait. Gatluak previously served as a security advisor to President Kiir.
The recent reshuffling of key political positions by President Salva Kiir reflects a strategic move to reinforce his administration’s leadership structure, particularly by appointing loyal individuals to crucial roles. The changes, which include the dismissal and appointment of vice presidents and ministers, highlight the ongoing political maneuvering within South Sudan. These appointments and dismissals may impact the political landscape as the nation continues to navigate complex governance challenges.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
