By: Chuol Jany
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has announced a major reshuffle of his cabinet and security leadership, removed several senior officials and appointed new faces into government.
The changes affect key ministries, state governments, and the security sector. They come at a critical time as South Sudan continues to face challenges in implementing the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, ahead of the planned general elections in December.
In presidential decrees read on state television, President Kiir relieved Honorable Dak Duop Bichiok as Minister of Public Service and Human Resource Development. He was replaced by Ezekiel Lol Gatkuoth.
In another major change, the President dismissed Honorable Angelina Teny as Minister of Interior. Teny is a senior member of the SPLM-IO and the wife of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar. She was replaced by former Warrap State Governor, General Aleu Ayieny Aleu, a move that has generated political debate.
At the Ministry of Labour, Honorable James Hoth Mai was relieved of his duties and replaced by Anthony Lino Makan, the former Speaker of Parliament.
Changes were also made at the Ministry of Culture, Museums, and National Heritage. Honorable Nadia Arop was relieved and replaced by Sarah Nyanath Elijah, a prominent civil society leader and a signatory to the 2018 peace agreement.
At the state level, President Kiir removed Lakes State Governor General Ring Tueny Mabor, despite his recent recognition for stabilizing the state. He was replaced by Madhang Majok Meen. In Upper Nile State, Deputy Governor Deng Joh was also dismissed and replaced by Deng Akuei Kat.
In the security sector, President Kiir relieved General Thoi Chany Reat as Director General of the General Intelligence Bureau and appointed Abraham Keat Bichiok as his successor.
President Kiir thanked the outgoing officials for their service to the nation.