The changes were announced through a Republican Decree issued on Thursday. They took immediate effect, a day after Kiir urged Makuei to expedite the review of prominent pending court cases and improve the delivery of justice across the country in a meeting held at J1.
Under the decree, Makuei, who has served as Justice Minister since November 2025, remains one of the most recognizable figures in South Sudan’s transitional government, was relieved of his duties and reassigned to head the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.
In a reciprocal move, Dr. Mamer, who had been serving as Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, was appointed Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.
The presidency did not provide any explanation for the reshuffle, which comes at a critical stage in South Sudan’s transitional political process.
Despite the changes, President Kiir praised both ministers for their service in their previous roles.
“The President of the Republic extends his profound gratitude to both ministers for their dedicated service and stewardship in their previous dockets,” the decree said.
Kiir also expressed confidence in the ability of the two officials to effectively discharge their new responsibilities.
Makuei is among South Sudan’s longest-serving cabinet ministers and has played a central role in government affairs since the country’s independence in 2011. Over the years, he has become the public face of numerous government policies, reforms, and official announcements, often serving as a key spokesperson on matters of national importance.
His transfer to the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs marks one of the most significant changes within President Kiir’s cabinet in recent months.
Meanwhile, Dr. Wek assumes leadership of the Justice Ministry at a time when the country faces growing pressure to implement critical provisions of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement. Among the pending tasks are the drafting of a permanent constitution, completion of legal and institutional reforms, and preparations for long-delayed national elections.
The reshuffle also comes just days after President Kiir directed the Ministry of Justice to conduct an urgent review of several prominent pending court cases, highlighting the increasing importance of the ministry’s role in strengthening public confidence in the justice system.
Political observers are likely to view the ministerial swap as part of broader efforts by the government to reposition key officials as South Sudan works toward completing its transitional roadmap and laying the groundwork for its first elections since gaining independence in 2011.
