President Salva Kiir’s recent appointment of a new Chief Justice has sparked optimism among lawyers, activists, and members of the public, who hope for long-overdue reforms in South Sudan’s judiciary.
On Wednesday night, President Kiir removed long-serving Chief Justice Chan Reec Madut after 13 years in office, appointing Justice Benjamin Baak Deng as his successor. Deputy Chief Justice John Gatwech Lul was also dismissed, with Laku Trankilo Nyumbi named in his place.
Justice Baak, who holds an LLB from the University of Khartoum, is considered one of the country’s most experienced legal minds. Many hope his leadership will bring about transformation in a judiciary plagued by allegations of corruption, political interference, and delays in justice delivery.
Garang Kur Deng, a practicing lawyer, welcomed the appointment. “We need reforms. The new Chief Justice must ensure justice is neither delayed nor corrupted,” he said, urging collaboration with legal practitioners to address bribery and case backlogs.
Challenges facing the judiciary include limited independence from the executive, a shortage of judges, poor infrastructure, and inadequate training for judicial staff. Activists and officials alike believe Baak’s background equips him to lead change.
Lam Akol Ajawin, Minister of Transport and veteran politician, said Baak’s rise through the Sudanese judiciary ranks to the Court of Appeal reflects his capability. “His experience makes him a competent choice for Chief Justice,” Akol stated.
Justice James Aping called on Baak to tackle judicial malpractice. “Most courts are infiltrated by bribery. We hope the new Chief Justice will restore integrity,” he said.
In his part, CEPO’s Edmund Yakani praised Kiir’s decision, urging nonpartisan leadership in the judiciary. “The public expects real reforms. The new Chief Justice must uphold constitutional values and act independently,” he said.
The 2018 peace agreement mandates judicial reforms, but progress has been slow. Many now look to Justice Baak to lead the way forward.
