Kiir sacks three national ministers in latest cabinet shake-up

JUBA – South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit has dismissed three key national ministers in a his latest government reshuffle, appointing new officials to lead crucial portfolios, according to presidential decrees read on state television on Monday night.

In the first decree readout on the state-owned South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC), Kiir sacked the minister of justice and constitutional affairs Ruben Madol Arol, replacing him with Wek Mamer Kuol. The reasons for Madol’s removal remain unclear.

In another decree, Awut Deng Acuil, the Minister of General Education and Instruction, was also dismissed. Kiir appointed Dr. Kuyok Abol Kuyok as her replacement. Kuyok, an academic and education expert, has an extensive background in research and policy development.

He earned his Bachelor of Education from the University of Juba in 1988 and later pursued postgraduate studies in international relations at the University of Khartoum. He holds two master’s degrees in education and social science research, as well as a PhD from the Institute of Education, University of London.

In a third decree, Kiir dismissed Amb. Joseph Mum Majak, the Minister of Trade and Industry, and replaced him with Atong Kuol Manyang, the former Deputy Governor of Jonglei State who was also dismissed in a previous decree.

The latest reshuffle comes amid growing concerns over governance and service delivery in key ministries.

The presidency has not provided official reasons for the changes, but analysts see the move as part of Kiir’s strategy to strengthen his administration ahead of the anticipated elections that had repeatedly been postponed.