Kiir Replaces Presidential Aides Ahead of Elections

(JUBA) – President Salva Kiir Mayardit has made significant changes to senior leadership in the national security and presidential office, a move seen by observers as part of an ongoing effort to consolidate power and streamline decision making at the highest levels of government.

The changes were announced Monday evening on the state run South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC). Among the most notable departures was Lieutenant General Chol Agoth Deng, who served as the Deputy Director General for Administration and Finance in the Internal Security Bureau, part of the National Security Service. He has been replaced by Lieutenant General John Manut Wol.

Also removed from office was Dominic Juuk Chom, the Executive Director in the Office of the President. His position has now been filled by Ambassador Ajing Deng Ajing, a senior diplomat with experience in protocol and international relations.

In another appointment, Yar Peter Machar was named the new Chief of State Protocol, a critical role responsible for managing the President’s diplomatic and ceremonial affairs. Her appointment signals a possible shift toward greater gender inclusion in high-profile government roles, although official statements did not elaborate on the motivation behind the decision.

In a separate development, Madut Arop Madut was appointed to the Transitional National Legislative Assembly. He fills a seat left vacant by the recent death of his father, Arop Madut Arop, a prominent SPLM lawmaker and historian known for his contributions to South Sudan’s liberation struggle and political development.

These changes come at a politically sensitive time for South Sudan, with less than a year remaining before the country is expected to conduct national elections. Analysts say the reshuffle reflects the President’s desire to surround himself with trusted allies and streamline administrative structures ahead of the electoral period.

While the government has not provided detailed explanations for the dismissals or appointments, the swift announcement of replacements indicates a high degree of preparation and internal planning. Political analysts suggest that such moves could be aimed at improving internal coordination and ensuring loyalty within key institutions, particularly as the government faces growing domestic and international pressure to deliver on its peace commitments.

South Sudan remains under international scrutiny over delays in implementing provisions of the 2018 peace agreement, including security arrangements, constitutional reforms, and preparations for credible elections. The reshuffling of top personnel could be viewed as part of broader efforts to stabilise and reorganise internal governance structures to meet these demands.

In a country where political appointments are often deeply intertwined with ethnic, regional, and party considerations, the latest changes are also expected to influence the political dynamics within the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) and its allied groups.

So far, there has been no official comment from the dismissed officials or their families. The Presidential Press Unit has issued only a brief confirmation of the appointments without additional context.

The local currency, the South Sudanese Pound (SSP), remains under pressure amid economic challenges. With $1 currently equal to approximately 4,600 SSP, the cost of public administration and national security operations continues to weigh heavily on the national budget. Any administrative restructuring at this level could also have fiscal implications, though government expenditure figures have not been disclosed.

The appointments come just weeks after renewed calls from civil society groups urging the President to remove underperforming officials and inject new energy into public institutions ahead of the elections. Whether these changes will result in more efficient governance remains to be seen.

New Appointments Summary