South Sudan president dismisses vice president in major government reshuffle

South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit has removed Vice President Benjamin Bol Mel from office in a major cabinet reshuffle that signals a significant political realignment. The presidential decrees announced on state television Wednesday also stripped Bol Mel of his position as First Deputy Chairman of the ruling Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) and reduced his military rank from general to private within the National Security Service.

Comprehensive Government Changes

The reorganization extended beyond the vice presidency to include several key economic positions. President Kiir appointed Akol Paul Kordit as the new SPLM Secretary General, replacing Paul Logale, while also dismissing Addis Ababa Othow as Governor of the Bank of South Sudan and Simon Akuei as commissioner general of the South Sudan Revenue Authority. No immediate successor was named for the vice president position, leaving a vacancy in the country's leadership structure.

Political Context and Preceding Events

The dismissal followed earlier speculation about Bol Mel's status after reports emerged that his security detail had been withdrawn. His office had issued statements denying what it described as "unfounded rumors" of house arrest and asserting that he continued to implement President Kiir's vision for national development. The sudden reversal from these assurances to formal dismissal highlights the volatile nature of South Sudan's political landscape.

Broader Implications

South Sudan maintains a unique political structure with five vice presidents established under the 2018 peace agreement. Bol Mel had been appointed to the position in February, replacing Wani Igga as the vice president representing the SPLM. The latest reshuffle occurs amid ongoing challenges in implementing the peace agreement and preparing for anticipated elections, reflecting continuing tensions within the country's leadership.