The President of the Republic of South Sudan, Salva Kiir, has issued a series of presidential decrees removing and appointing more than 20 officials in a sweeping restructuring of the Upper Nile State Government.
The changes, made in line with Article 106A(2)(a) of the Transitional Constitution of 2011 (as amended), affect key positions across the state executive, including advisors, ministers, independent commissions, and county commissioners.
The move is seen as part of ongoing efforts to streamline governance and reinforce the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement at the state level.
Among the new appointments are two State Advisors, with Buay Tor Chuol assigned to Economic Affairs under SPLM and Stephen Athor Monyjo taking on Human Rights under SPLM-IO, reflecting the power-sharing arrangement among the peace parties.
A broad reshuffle was also effected within the state cabinet, where several ministers were relieved and replaced.
Newly appointed officials include Both Gony Wuor as Minister of Cabinet Affairs (SSOA), Riek Muon Deng as Minister of Parliamentary and Legal Affairs (SPLM-IO), and Martin Monykuer Monyjok as Minister of Local Government and Law Enforcement (SPLM).
Other key portfolios saw new leadership, including Finance, Planning and Investment under Simon Jundi Both, Trade and Industry under Paul Biel, and Agriculture, Environment and Forestry under Akoch Jok Achiek.
The Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare was assigned to Yiech Gach Ruei, while Barech Lual Chol was named Minister of General Education and Instruction.
In the independent commissions, Kwojo Chol Otong was appointed Chairperson of the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission, alongside Sabino Odwak Akwai as a member responsible for conflict resolution mechanisms.
At the local government level, new county commissioners were also named, including Lorpiny Akol Tongok for Baliet County, John Luny Puk for Maiwut County, Buturos Gabriel Obaj for Makal County, and Awer Juac Kejok for Akoka County.
The decrees take immediate effect, with the President extending his best wishes to the newly appointed officials as they assume their responsibilities.
In a statement issued on behalf of the presidency, Upper Nile State Governor Jacob Dollar Ruot expressed confidence that the new appointments will enhance service delivery, strengthen administrative effectiveness, and contribute to stability in the state.
Political observers say the large-scale reshuffle underscores continued efforts by the national government to maintain balance among signatory parties while addressing governance challenges in Upper Nile, a region that remains critical to the country’s broader peace and stability efforts.
