Kiir sacks head of relief agency, names replacement

JUBA – South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has replaced the head of the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC), Manase Lomole Waya and made changes to leadership positions in two key states.

Lomole was removed from his post via a presidential decree announced Friday evening on state-owned television SSBC.

Gatwech Peter Kulang, a former undersecretary at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, has been appointed as his successor.

The RRC plays a vital role in coordinating and overseeing South Sudan’s humanitarian response, a critical function in a nation grappling with ongoing conflict and displacement.

The reasons for Lomole’s dismissal remain unclear, and the move has sparked speculation about potential political maneuvering within the ruling party to which Lomole belongs.

President Kiir also issued separate decrees reshuffling leadership positions in Upper Nile and Jonglei states, further adding to the air of uncertainty surrounding the government’s intentions.

These changes come amid ongoing controversy over the timing of the next general elections, initially scheduled for December 2023 but now facing potential delays due to the incomplete implementation of the 2018 peace agreement.