In a ministerial order dated March 17, 2026, Hon. Bol Akuar Gamar appointed Johnson Garang Kuek as the new County Director, effectively replacing Chan, who was reportedly detained earlier this month.
The order, seen by Sudans Post, does not provide any justification for Chan’s removal. Instead, it cites the minister’s constitutional powers under Presidential Decree No. 84/2022 and Article 110(1) of the Transitional Constitution of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State (2011, as amended).
“In exercise of the powers conferred upon me… I hereby appoint Mr. Johnson Garang Kuek as the County Director for Culture, Youth and Sports in Aweil East County,” the letter reads in part.
Chan was reportedly arrested over the weekend in Wanyjok Town during a nighttime operation. His whereabouts were initially unknown, but he is now believed to be held at National Security premises in Aweil Town. Authorities have not publicly disclosed the reasons for his detention.
The dismissal comes amid reported tensions between Chan and the Aweil East County Commissioner, though details of the dispute remain unclear.
The move has sparked anger among sections of the youth, many of whom have taken to social media to question the legality and fairness of the decision. Critics argue that dismissing a public official while in detention, without due process or formal charges, raises serious concerns about governance and the rule of law.
One youth activist wrote on Facebook:
“This shows the ineptitude of leadership. How can someone be fired while detained over alleged political differences without due process?”
The post drew mixed reactions, with some supporting the criticism while others defended the minister’s decision.
The controversy comes months after the detention of Aweil East Youth Association chairperson, Thiep Akol, in a separate incident linked to disagreements with county authorities—fueling broader concerns about the treatment of youth leaders in the area.
It remains unclear whether the state government will respond to calls for Chan’s release or clarify the circumstances surrounding both his detention and dismissal.
