Former National Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, Bec George Anyak, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him, stating that he leaves office feeling both grateful and wiser than when he entered the finance docket.
Anyak, a member of the SPLM-IO Party and a loyalist to Dr. Riek Machar, was relieved of his duties along with other members of Parliament by President Kiir in a presidential decree announced on SSBC TV on August 13, 2025.
He has been replaced by Yien Chan Ruei.
Speaking during the reception ceremony for the new deputy minister of finance and planning, Anyak praised the leadership for the opportunity to serve in the financial sector for ten months.
“Leadership is a trust from God, the Party, and the people. I leave this office grateful, wiser, and more hopeful than when I entered this ministry,” Anyak stated.
He urged leaders to work collaboratively across political lines and institutions, emphasizing the importance of unity for the well-being of South Sudanese.
Reflecting on his achievements, Anyak noted that they strengthened fiscal discipline, improved transparency, and aligned their work with broader national priorities.
“We have focused on improving cash management, enhancing domestic resource mobilization, and prioritizing expenditures that most directly impact the lives of our citizens—through salaries and essential services,” he explained.
The former Minister urged the incoming deputy minister of finance to pass the baton firmly and in good faith.
“You will find colleagues who are committed, systems that are improving, and partners ready to support your leadership. I pledge my full support as a citizen and as a colleague in the broader public service,” he added, emphasizing that “leadership is a relay, not a race—we must pass the baton firmly, clearly, and in good faith.”
The presidential decree that removed Anyak also targeted Machar loyalists in both Houses of Parliament—the Transitional National Legislative Assembly and the Council of States.
This action was widely condemned by members of the SPLM-IO loyal to First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, who called it a blatant violation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan.
