President Salva Kiir’s returns from the UEA sparked swift political changes as he issued decrees shaking up his administration.
At the heart of the shake-up was the reappointment of his long-time security ally, Tut Gatluak Manime, as Presidential Advisor on National Security Affairs, a move widely seen as a signal of continuity and trust in his inner circle.
The flurry of decrees touched nearly every corner of government, from finance to the presidency. Hon. Athian Diing Athian was dismissed as Minister of Finance and Planning, replaced by Barnaba Bak Chol, who now inherits a struggling economy and rising fiscal pressures.
At the Ministry of Presidential Affairs, Africano Mande took over from Amb. Chol Mawut, marking a strategic shift within the President’s close administrative orbit.
Within the Office of the President, James Deng Wal was reinstated as Executive Director, replacing Amb. Ajiing Deng Ajiing, in what many describe as a move to restore familiar discipline at the heart of the presidency.
Meanwhile, in the Ministry of Petroleum, Dr. Chol Thon Abel was appointed Undersecretary, replacing Deng Wal Wol, signaling an intent to inject new energy into one of South Sudan’s most vital sectors.
Kiir’s decrees didn’t stop there. In the military ranks, Gen. Philip Nyon returned as commander of the elite Tiger Division, replacing Maj. Gen. Valentino Bak Makuei, who had only been in the post for a month a clear message that loyalty and performance remain non-negotiable.
The President also made new diplomatic appointments, including Amb. Rita Lotua as South Sudan’s envoy to Rwanda, underscoring his administration’s push to realign key foreign posts with trusted figures.
Kiir’s search for solution and effective governance as the country inches closer to the 2026 elections.
