Civil society activist Wani Michael accused the minister of neglecting pressing responsibilities under his docket, particularly the delayed payment of civil servants’ salaries and broader inefficiencies within government institutions.
“Hon. Ezekiel Lol should focus on ensuring civil servants’ salaries are paid promptly. Reform the public service sector. He has become a busybody of late on unnecessary issues,” Wani said in a statement Saturday.
The remarks come amid growing public frustration over persistent complaints from government employees regarding delayed or underpayment of salaries, weak administrative systems, and poor delivery of public services across the country.
Gatkuoth has in recent months gained attention for posting frequent political commentaries touching on national security matters and political rivalries, particularly in Upper Nile and Jonglei. Critics argue that while political debates dominate public discourse, institutions under his leadership continue to face serious governance challenges.
The minister, a former member of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition, has emerged as a strong opponent of the party’s chairman and First Vice President Riek Machar, especially in the wake of the conflict in northern Jonglei.
Wani, who is the former Executive Director of Okay Africa, said the minister should acknowledge the opportunities he received under Machar’s leadership.
“Whether he goes to the moon or sun, Dr. Riek Machar revived his political career and allowed him to serve. You can disagree with his policy but respect the fact that he was your boss and allowed you to shine,” he said.
The activist further claimed that Gatkuoth rose politically during his time in the opposition movement and was later appointed Minister of Petroleum, a role that elevated his national profile.
“It was because of Dr. Riek that made you secure the position of Minister of Petroleum after you guys staged a coup against him in the party,” Wani alleged.
He went on to accuse the minister of enriching himself while in office, alleging that public resources were misused to acquire luxury properties in Juba, Kenya and elsewhere. The claims could not be independently verified.
Wani concluded by dismissing any suggestion that Gatkuoth could rival Machar’s political influence, while crediting the opposition leader with mentoring younger politicians.
“I can assure you, there’s no way you can become Dr. Riek Machar. Just stay in your lane,” he said. “I might not agree with Dr. Riek Machar, but I know for a fact that he’s one of the few politicians in South Sudan who’ve built young leaders.”
The statement is likely to add to the ongoing debate over the conduct of public officials and whether ministers should focus more on institutional performance than political commentary.
