By Kiden Stela Mandela
President Salva Kiir Mayardit, the Chairperson of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) Party, issued a series of Republican Decrees and a Party Order announcing a major overhaul of the government and party leadership. The decrees were read over the State-owned Broadcaster, South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC), late Monday.
The most significant move saw the return of veteran politician Dr. James Wani Igga to the executive as the new Vice-President in charge of the Economic Cluster. Concurrently, President Kiir appointed Dr. Igga as the First Deputy Chairperson of the SPLM Party, consolidating his role across both government and the ruling political structure.
The changes affected four key ministerial positions and the national police command, signalling a broad internal realignment.
The reshuffle involved high-profile movements, particularly a notable swap between the Justice and Information dockets:
In the reshuffle, Michael Makuei Lueth was relieved as Minister of Information and immediately reassigned to the critical post of Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, replacing Joseph Geng Akech. The Information Ministry will now be led by Ateny Wek Ateny.
In other ministerial changes, Josephine Napwon Cosmos was relieved as Minister of Environment and Forestry and replaced by Garang Mabior Garang. Simon Mijok Mijak was also removed as Minister of Roads and Bridges, with Peter Lam Both appointed to the portfolio.
In the security sector, President Kiir relieved Gen. Abraham Manyuat Peter and named Said Chawul Long as the new Inspector General of Police.
The decrees also confirmed leadership changes at the state level and in the diplomatic service:
Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony was reappointed to continue serving as the Governor of Central Equatoria State, following the relief of Rabi Mujung Emmanuel.
Ambassador Monica Achol Abel Aguek was reinstated as a Grade I Ambassador in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and was appointed as the Presidential Envoy for the Middle East.