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Showing posts from May, 2025

Kuol Manyang: Security Arrangements Are Key to Lasting Peace

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President Kiir and Kuol Manyang ‎Senior Presidential Advisor and Chairperson of the National Transitional Committee (NTC), Kuol Manyang Juuk, has updated President Salva Kiir Mayardit on the ongoing efforts to implement the security provisions of the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS). ‎ ‎During a briefing held at the State House in Juba, Kuol Manyang expressed optimism about the progress made by the NTC, saying: “We are progressing well.” He emphasized that the Committee remains fully committed to delivering on the key tasks outlined in the peace deal, particularly those related to Chapter Two, which covers security arrangements including the unification of forces, training and redeployment, and DDR (disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration) programs. ‎ ‎“Security is the backbone of lasting peace,” Kuol stated. “We are prioritizing this chapter because without strong and united security institutions, the broader ...
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Unity State Embraces Peace: VP Taban’s Tour Highlights Stability and Growth ‎

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‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has received a comprehensive briefing from the Vice President for Infrastructure Cluster, Taban Deng Gai, following his recent peace mission to Unity State, where he also attended the Centenary celebration of the Catholic Church in the region. ‎ ‎During the meeting, VP Taban Deng Gai provided detailed insights into his tour, which included several community engagements aimed at promoting peace and stability.  ‎ ‎He emphasized the government’s dedication to ensuring that South Sudan never relapses into conflict, reaffirming President Kiir’s strong message of lasting peace. ‎ ‎Vice President Taban Deng Gai also praised the increase in school enrollment across the country, commending parents for their dedication to education and the future of South Sudan’s children.  ‎ ‎He noted that the peace message was warmly received by the people of Unity State, who expressed their full support for continued efforts towards stability. ‎ ‎He further stressed the...
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Ugandan Troops Accused of War Crimes in South Sudan: Civil Society Demands ICC Action

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 ‎ UPDF.  A South Sudanese campaign group, the Reclaim Campaign, has submitted a formal request to the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate alleged atrocities committed by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) during their incursion into Upper Nile State in March 2025. ‎ ‎The group alleges that the UPDF carried out indiscriminate bombings, used chemical weapons, and targeted civilians particularly from the Nuer ethnic group while operating inside South Sudanese territory without the consent of the transitional government.  ‎ ‎According to the campaign, these actions could constitute war crimes, crimes against humanity, and acts of aggression under the Rome Statute. ‎ ‎The Reclaim Campaign's petition also claims that the Ugandan government has shown no willingness to hold its military accountable, making a case for the ICC to intervene.  ‎ ‎The group cited statements by Ugandan officials that allegedly dehumanize South Sudanese citizens and promote et...
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Betrayed by Their Own Government: Western Bahr el-Ghazal MPs Suffer in Silence

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‎ Western Bahr El Ghazal State Assembly.  ‎At least 40 lawmakers in Western Bahr el-Ghazal State are reportedly bedridden without proper medical care due to the state government's failure to pay their medical allowances since they took office in 2020, according to a legislative spokesperson.  ‎ ‎Joseph Mawut Athian, spokesperson for the Western Bahr el-Ghazal Transitional Legislative Assembly, told the media that the sick legislators lack even travel funds to seek treatment in Juba.  ‎ ‎“We have about 40 MPs who are sick and without even the tickets for travel to Juba,” Athian said.  ‎ ‎He accused executive members of using state funds for flights abroad both for medical treatment and personal trips while lawmakers struggle without basic resources.  ‎ ‎“We are seeing some officials within the executive flying to Juba, Kenya and elsewhere, yet even our speaker has no car to travel to the Lokoloko neighborhood within Wau,” he said.  ‎ ‎Athian said the assembl...
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Peace Talk in Juba: President Kiir Meets with Norwegian Envoy as Clock Ticks Toward Elections ‎

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President Kiir and the Norwegian Envoy.  ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has reiterated his steadfast commitment to peace and stability in South Sudan during a high-level meeting with Norwegian Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Endre Stiansen, held in Juba on Friday. ‎ ‎In a press briefing after the meeting, Envoy Stiansen revealed that President Kiir had offered a candid assessment of the nation’s current challenges and conveyed a clear vision for peace as the country moves closer to its anticipated national elections.  ‎ ‎Envoy Stiansen emphasized the importance of open political dialogue and consensus-building as key to overcoming divisions in South Sudanese society. ‎ ‎Norway’s Continued Role in South Sudan ‎Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Akuei Bona Malual, praised Norway’s historical friendship with South Sudan, noting its long-standing role in supporting peace processes and development initiatives.  ‎ ‎He said the meeting covere...
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New Era for SPLM: Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel Pledges Loyalty, Discipline, and Development ‎

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VP. Dr. Bol Mel  ‎ In a significant political development, Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chairperson of the Economic Cluster, has officially been sworn in as the First Deputy Chairperson of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM). ‎ ‎Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony in Juba, Dr. Bol Mel described his new role not as a personal honor, but a solemn "call to duty." He pledged to serve with loyalty, discipline, and dedication under the leadership of SPLM Chairperson and President, H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit. ‎ ‎In his remarks, Dr. Bol Mel paid tribute to his predecessor, Professor James Wani Igga, and acknowledged the contributions of SPLM veterans including Comrades Daniel Awet Akot and Kuol Manyang Juuk. ‎ ‎He also expressed deep gratitude to the party’s founders, senior comrades, and veteran members for their courage and sacrifice, promising to carry their legacy forward. "You walked through fire to lift our nation...
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President ‎Kiir Charts 2025 Vision at SPLM Swearing-In: Bol Mel Steps In, SPLM Steps Forward

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‎ ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardiit on Thursday officially welcomed the new top deputies of the SPLM during a swearing in ceremony at the party’s headquarters in Juba. ‎ ‎Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel stepped into the role of First Deputy Chairman, Mary Apai became the Second Deputy Chairperson, and Simon Kun was named Third Deputy Chairman. ‎ ‎In his speech, President Kiir said the SPLM is a movement for all South Sudanese not for one tribe or region. He urged the new leaders to work together, focus on results, and put the country first.  ‎ ‎Kiir also made a big announcement: 2025 is now the Year of Agriculture. He called on citizens to work the land and help build a self-reliant economy. ‎ ‎To the youth, he had this message: “The future is in your hands learn from the past and lead the way forward.” ‎ ‎Dr. Bol Mel, now officially the First Deputy, thanked Kiir for the trust. “I may be new to this role, but not to the struggle,” he said.  ‎ ‎Dr. Bol Mel, promised loyalty and teamwork to...
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Finance Ministry Orders All Civil Servants to Open Bank Accounts for Salary Payments ‎

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‎In a significant shift aimed at reforming the public payroll system, the Ministry of Finance and Planning has instructed all government employees to open personal bank accounts to receive their monthly salaries.  ‎ ‎The directive, issued through an official circular, is effective immediately and applies to all ministries, departments, and government agencies. ‎ ‎According to the ministry, this policy is designed to address long-standing challenges in the salary payment system, including delays, lack of transparency, and the risk of mismanagement.  ‎ ‎By moving to a direct bank transfer system, the government hopes to streamline the process, ensure timely payment, and enhance accountability. ‎ ‎Discontinuation of Old Payment Methods ‎Traditionally, many civil servants have received their salaries in cash or through manual payment processes methods that are vulnerable to delays, loss, and inconsistencies.  ‎ ‎These approaches are now being phased out completely. Going forw...
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President Kiir Calls on Governor Bim to Maintain Stability in Unity State

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‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit met with Unity State Governor Riek Bim Top on Wednesday, where he received a full report on the current situation in the state.  ‎ ‎The meeting took place at the presidential office in Juba and focused primarily on security, governance, and efforts to unite communities in Unity State. ‎ ‎Governor’s Report on Unity State ‎Governor Bim informed the President that: ‎The overall security situation is calm, though there have been some isolated incidents which are being closely monitored and managed. ‎ ‎The state government is committed to peacebuilding, particularly in improving public order and fostering reconciliation. ‎ ‎Efforts are ongoing to unite diverse communities and ensure that citizens live in peace and harmony. ‎ ‎President Kiir’s Response ‎Praised Governor Bim for his leadership and commitment to peace and development in Unity State. ‎ ‎Instructed him to continue promoting unity and stability, urging that local leadership must work hand-in-han...
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Leadership Shift in SPLM: Bol Mel Tipped as Kiir’s Potential Successor ‎

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President Kiir VP. Bol Mel ‎President Salva Kiir has appointed Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel as the First Deputy Chairperson of the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM), in a significant reshuffle that signals potential shifts in the country’s political future. ‎ ‎Dr. Bol Mel replaces veteran politician Dr. James Wani Igga, who has served in the SPLM leadership since the liberation struggle.  ‎ ‎The move has sparked wide speculation that President Kiir may be grooming Bol Mel as his successor ahead of the long-awaited national elections. ‎ ‎In the same decree, Kiir also removed Daniel Awet Akot and Kuol Manyang Juuk from their positions as second and third deputy chairpersons. They were replaced by Mary Apai Ayiga and Simon Kun Puoch, former governor of Upper Nile State. ‎ ‎Bol Mel, a known close ally of Kiir, currently oversees the economic cluster in the government. He is also a prominent businessman who has faced U.S. sanctions over alleged ties to corrupt busi...
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SPLM-IO Faction Reaffirms Machar’s Leadership, Warns of Strain on Peace Deal ‎

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FVP Dr. Riek Machar  ‎ A faction within the Sudan People's Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO) has strongly reaffirmed its allegiance to First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny, despite his current house arrest and rising internal divisions.  ‎ ‎This comes in response to recent claims by Stephen Par Kuol, a senior SPLM-IO official, who two months ago declared himself interim leader of the party. ‎ ‎In a public statement, members of the SPLM-IO Political Bureau declared Par Kuol's assertion “null and void,” reiterating that Machar remains the legitimate leader of the movement.  ‎ ‎The group emphasized that although the implementation of the 2018 Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) is under immense pressure, it has not collapsed. ‎ ‎Analysis: A Party in Turmoil, a Peace Deal in Peril ‎This development highlights the growing cracks within the SPLM-IO, a key signatory to the peace agreement that ended South Sudan’s brutal...
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‎Hope for Change: Kiir and VIce President Nyandeng Discuss Peace, Roads, and Neighbors ‎

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President Kiir and VP Nyandeng  ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardiit today met with Vice President Rebecca Nyandeng at the State House in Juba.   ‎ ‎During the meeting, Vice President Nyandeng briefed President Kiir on her recent official visit to Uganda, where she held discussions with President Yoweri Museveni.  ‎ ‎According to a statement from the Office of the President, their discussions focused on enhancing bilateral relations between South Sudan and Uganda and promoting peace in the region.   ‎ ‎They also addressed key national issues, including the current political and economic developments in South Sudan.  ‎ ‎President Kiir and Vice President Nyandeng reaffirmed their commitment to peace, unity, and development in South Sudan.   ‎ ‎They emphasized the importance of cooperation among leaders and citizens to advance the country's progress and strengthen its relations with neighboring countries.   ‎ ‎This high-level engagement com...
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SSPDF and Agwelek Forces Capture New Fangak in Jonglei State ‎

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‎ SSPDF Soldier  ‎Government troops from the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), backed by the Agwelek militia, have taken control of New Fangak (Phom) in Fangak County, Jonglei State, following a coordinated military offensive against forces loyal to the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) and the White Army. ‎ ‎Major General Paromi Angui, the SSPDF operations commander and deputy commander of Agwelek forces, confirmed the capture, stating that the operation began on May 12 and resulted in the seizure of both New Fangak town and the Alel area to its south. ‎ ‎According to Gen. Paromi, government forces suffered minimal losses, with one soldier killed and a few others wounded.  ‎ ‎He claimed that the opposition suffered heavier casualties and reported the capture of two SPLA-IO fighters. He also noted that air power and river barges supported the operation. ‎ ‎Eyewitnesses and reports from the ground indicated that several houses were seen burning i...
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President Kiir Promotes Napoleon Adok Gai to Major General in the National Security Service ‎

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‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has promoted Napoleon Adok Gai to the rank of Major General in South Sudan’s National Security Service (NSS), a move that reflects both his growing influence in national affairs and his dual legacy in the tech and security sectors. ‎ ‎From Child Soldier to National Figure ‎Napoleon Adok Gai's story is one of transformation. Born in Yirol County, he was conscripted as a child soldier during the war years.  ‎ ‎Like many young South Sudanese at the time, Gai’s early life was shaped by conflict. But after relocating to the UK, he pursued higher education and returned with degrees in software engineering, ICT, and project management. ‎ ‎His education would eventually position him to lead digital transformation efforts in South Sudan. ‎ ‎The Man Behind South Sudan’s Digital Awakening ‎Gai is best known to many South Sudanese as the Director General of the National Communication Authority (NCA). Since his appointment in 2020, he has pushed for major reforms ...
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VP Taban Breaks Silence on Machar Arrest: “Let the Law Decide” ‎

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‎South Sudan’s Vice President Gen. Taban Deng Gai has assured citizens that the peace agreement signed in 2018 remains strong, despite the recent house arrest of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar.  ‎ ‎Speaking during a visit to Unity State on Saturday, Gai said Machar’s detention is a legal issue not a political move. ‎ ‎“The arrest of Dr. Riek Machar should not be seen as a threat to peace,” Gai told a gathering in Rubkona County. “He will go through legal proceedings, and the law will determine whether he has done anything wrong.” ‎ ‎President Salva Kiir ordered the house arrest of Machar in late March, accusing him of involvement in recent violence in Nasir County, Upper Nile State.  ‎ ‎The move has sparked concerns among Machar’s supporters and raised fears of renewed conflict in his home region. ‎ ‎VP Taban, who leads the Infrastructure Cluster in the unity government, is part of the power-sharing arrangement formed after the five-year civil war. His visit aimed to cal...
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Leadership Overhaul: Kiir Sacks Two Undersecretaries in ICT Ministry

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‎President Salva Kiir has issued a presidential decree sacking two senior officials from the Ministry of Information, Communication Technology, and Postal Services.  ‎ ‎The decision, announced on state-owned South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC), affects two undersecretaries who have been replaced with new appointees. ‎ ‎The officials removed from their posts are Wani Ladu Kenyi and Yath Awan Yath. They have been succeeded by Thomas Gatkuoth Yak and Martin Mabior Mawien, respectively. ‎ ‎No reasons were given for the dismissals, but the reshuffle is seen as part of the government’s ongoing reforms aimed at improving efficiency within public institutions. ‎ ‎Who are the new appointees? ‎While little is publicly known about Thomas Gatkuoth Yak’s previous roles, his appointment marks a new chapter in the leadership of the ICT ministry. ‎ ‎On the other hand, Martin Mabior Mawien brings significant experience in logistics and public procurement.  He has previously served as M...
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President Kiir Sacks NCA Director General Napoleon Adok, Appoints Gieth Kon Mathiang ‎

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‎ ‎In a surprise presidential decree, President Salva Kiir Mayardit dismissed Napoleon Adok Gai as the Director General of the National Communication Authority (NCA), a powerful regulatory body overseeing South Sudan’s telecommunications and internet sectors. ‎ ‎He has been replaced by Gieth Kon Mathiang, whose appointment takes immediate effect. The presidency did not offer an official explanation for the shake-up. ‎ ‎Napoleon Adok had held the position since 2020 and was instrumental in expanding digital infrastructure and implementing key regulatory frameworks intended to modernize South Sudan’s telecom industry.  ‎ ‎Under his leadership, the NCA launched initiatives to improve mobile connectivity, oversee licensing compliance, and promote local innovation in ICT.  ‎ ‎However, his tenure was also marked by criticism over high data costs and limited access to internet services in rural areas. ‎ ‎The new Director General, Gieth Kon Mathiang, is a relatively lesser known figur...
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Gunmen Storm Tambura Hospital: Health Services Disrupted in Western Equatoria

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‎ ‎In a disturbing escalation of insecurity in South Sudan, two armed men stormed Tambura Hospital on Thursday morning, forcing the only major health facility in the area to close temporarily.  ‎ ‎The attackers, reportedly dressed in police uniforms with their faces covered, entered the hospital compound between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m., firing warning shots and stealing two motorbikes, including one that belonged to a patient. ‎ ‎According to Dr. Gabriel Benai Juma, the county’s medical director, the closure was necessary to safeguard patients and health staff while assessing the ongoing security risks. “We have reported previous threats, but the response has been slow. Our workers no longer feel safe,” Dr. Benai said in a statement. ‎ ‎Midwife Anigia Angelina, who witnessed the terrifying incident, said both patients and staff were traumatized. “People started running in all directions. It was chaos. We need urgent government protection,” she stressed. ‎ ‎Security Response and Concern...
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Francis Prevost Elected as New Pope Leo XIV ‎

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Robert Francis Prevost, new pope.  ‎In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from the United States has been elected as the new Pope.  ‎ ‎He will now be known as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first-ever American to lead the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics. ‎ ‎The announcement was made after white smoke emerged from the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican, signaling that the College of Cardinals had reached a decision. The election follows the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025. ‎ ‎Pope Leo XIV, born in Chicago in 1955, has a deep background in missionary service, particularly in Latin America. Before his election, he was serving as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and had spent several years working in Peru, where he was beloved for his humility and dedication to the poor. ‎ ‎In his first public address, the new Pope called for global unity, peace, and deeper compassion for the marginalized. “Let us walk together as a Church of hope...
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Kiir's Endorsement of Foreign Ministry Reforms Signals a Diplomatic Reset ‎ ‎

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President Kiir ‎President Salva Kiir’s recent commendation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs signals a renewed seriousness in South Sudan’s approach to international diplomacy.  ‎ ‎With Foreign Minister Monday Semaya Kumba outlining strategic, financial, and administrative reforms, the government appears intent on repositioning the country as a more active and credible player on the global stage. ‎ ‎This diplomatic pivot comes at a critical moment. South Sudan's international reputation has long been weighed down by internal instability, protracted conflict, and limited engagement beyond the region.  ‎ ‎However, recent interactions with the United Nations Security Council, and visits by high-level African Union and IGAD officials, point to a concerted effort to re-engage with global institutions and reset relations with key allies, notably the United States. ‎ ‎President Kiir’s backing of these reforms may also be a strategic move ahead of the planned national elections. Demo...
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President Kiir Updated on South Sudan’s Participation in 2025 World Bank and IMF Spring Meetings ‎

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‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Wednesday received a comprehensive briefing from senior government officials regarding South Sudan’s recent participation in the 2025 Spring Meetings of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which took place in Washington, D.C., United States. ‎ ‎The update was delivered by Vice President and Chairperson of the Economic Cluster, Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, who attended the meetings along with other top officials, including the Minister of Finance and Planning, Dr. Marial Dongrin Ater.  ‎ ‎The briefing centered on South Sudan’s economic performance, opportunities for recovery, and strategies for international engagement. ‎ ‎Dr. Marial Dongrin Ater told the President that the South Sudanese delegation presented the country's latest economic outlook, which included government initiatives aimed at restoring economic stability and boosting growth after years of crisis.  ‎ ‎He said the government is committed to implementing reforms th...
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BREAKING NEWS: Lam Akol in, Changson Out and Mawut Reassigned.

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‎ ‎President Salva Kiir has made a significant move in his administration by reshuffling key ministerial positions, bringing veteran opposition figure Dr. Lam Akol back into government and reassigning other prominent leaders. ‎ ‎In a presidential decree read on state television Tuesday night, Dr. Lam Akol was appointed as the new Minister of Transport, replacing Madut Biar Yel.  ‎ ‎In a surprising twist, Madut Biar Yel was not removed entirely but instead reassigned to lead the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology, a position previously held by Gabriel Changson Chang, who has now been relieved of his duties. ‎ ‎This reshuffle is being viewed by analysts as both a political recalibration and a strategic maneuver as the country prepares for its first general elections since independence, expected later this year. ‎ ‎A Comeback for Lam Akol ‎Dr. Lam Akol’s return to the cabinet is seen as highly symbolic. A seasoned politician and academic, Akol previously served as Mi...
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VP Bol Mel Vows to Settle Pension Arrears Worth SSP 43 Billion and USD 75 Million ‎

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‎Vice President and Economic Cluster Chair Dr. Benjamin Bol has pledged to clear pension arrears totaling SSP 43 billion and USD 75 million, covering the period from 2011 to 2023.  ‎ ‎The commitment was made during a high-level strategic meeting aimed at addressing persistent challenges in the public service sector. ‎ ‎Attending the meeting were Public Service Minister Dak Duop Bicok, Pension Fund Board Chair Angelo Deng Rehan, and the Fund’s General Manager Edward Yier Yier. Dr. Bol directed the immediate settlement of the arrears to support retired civil servants. ‎ ‎Additionally, he called on the Ministry of Finance to accelerate efforts to open bank accounts for public employees, a move aimed at eliminating ghost names from the national payroll system. ‎ ‎He further said that. “We cannot build a credible and transparent public service system while ghost names drain our national resources. I have directed the Ministry of Finance to ensure all employees open bank accounts this is...
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SPLM-IO Crisis Deepens: Prof. Adwok Calls Interim Leadership a 'Coup' ‎

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  ‎ Prof. Adwok ‎The internal rift within South Sudan’s main opposition party, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO), has taken a dramatic turn following the appointment of an interim leadership in the absence of detained leader Dr. Riek Machar.  ‎ ‎Prominent South Sudanese intellectual and former minister, Professor Peter Adwok Nyaba, has condemned the move, labeling it a “coup” against the peace agreement. ‎ ‎On April 9, senior SPLM-IO members in Juba installed Peacebuilding Minister Stephen Par Kuol as interim party leader. Losuba Ludoru Wongo was named deputy, and Agok Makur Kur was appointed interim secretary-general.  ‎ ‎The appointments came days after Machar was placed under house arrest on March 26, accused of inciting violence in Nasir County. ‎ ‎Speaking to the media, Prof. Adwok dismissed the leadership changes as illegal and externally orchestrated.  He warned that the move violated the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolutio...
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South Sudan Army Recaptures Nasir from Insurgents with Ugandan Support, Museveni Confirms

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‎ President Museveni and President Kiir ‎Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has confirmed that the South Sudan People's Defense Forces (SSPDF), with support from Ugandan troops, swiftly defeated insurgent forces who had captured the strategic town of Nasir in Upper Nile State. ‎ ‎In a statement delivered on Friday, Museveni praised the "rapid and decisive" joint military operation that led to the recapture of Nasir from the White Army a Nuer ethnic militia historically aligned with South Sudan's First Vice President Riek Machar during the country's previous civil war. ‎ ‎The operation, which culminated in the town's liberation on April 17, follows its fall to the insurgents in March, triggering a sharp escalation in political tensions across the country. President Salva Kiir’s government responded by ordering the arrest of Machar, accusing him of links to the rebel offensive. ‎ ‎Despite the 2018 peace agreement, which sought to unify armed factions under one na...
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Airstrikes Devastate MSF Hospital in Old Fangak, South Sudan: At Least 7 Dead, 20 Injured

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‎ ‎Old Fangak, a quiet and flood-prone community in South Sudan’s Jonglei State, woke up to horror on Friday morning as airstrikes ripped through the town claiming the lives of four people, including a nine-month-old baby, and injuring at least 25 others. ‎ ‎The attacks, reported to have been carried out by military aircraft, struck near the Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) hospital the only healthcare facility serving over 40,000 residents.  ‎ ‎According to local officials and eyewitnesses, the first bomb hit close to the hospital compound, where many civilians were sheltering. The injured include children, women, and the elderly, with survivors now seeking treatment in makeshift shelters as the hospital's services remain crippled. ‎ ‎"This is not just a tragedy; it’s an atrocity," a local official told the media "Targeting civilians, especially a place that offers medical care, is unacceptable.” ‎ ‎The MSF hospital has long been a lifeline in the region, where decade...
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University Students Protest at GPOC HQ Over Unpaid Tuition Commitments ‎

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‎A group of university students from South Sudan’s oil-producing regions staged a peaceful protest on Monday morning at the headquarters of the Greater Pioneer Operating Company (GPOC) in Juba, demanding the company fulfill its promise to cover their tuition fees. ‎ ‎The protest resulted in the brief arrest of several students, according to Khamis Othow Omot, Chairperson of the Student Union.  ‎ ‎“They were arrested, but they’ve now been released and are back at their office,” Omot told Aweil News Agency.  He emphasized that the protest was peaceful and organized to draw attention to what he described as a broken promise by GPOC. ‎ ‎The student leader warned that the situation remains unresolved and that many affected students may have missed their exams due to the financial uncertainty. The students are calling on GPOC to honor its financial commitment and engage in immediate dialogue. ‎ ‎Efforts to get a response from GPOC and police officials were unsuccessful at the time o...
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President Kiir Briefed on Urgent Development Needs in Greater Pibor ‎

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‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Thursday met with a delegation from the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA), where he was briefed on the critical challenges facing the region, particularly in the areas of health, education, and infrastructure. ‎ ‎The delegation was led by Chief Administrator Peter Guzulu Maze and included Members of Parliament representing GPAA.  ‎ ‎The meeting, held at the State House in Juba, aimed to draw national attention to the persistent hardships affecting the people of Greater Pibor an area often marginalized in national development agendas despite its strategic significance and rich cultural heritage. ‎ ‎According to Chief Administrator Maze, access to basic services in the GPAA remains alarmingly low. Many health facilities are non-functional, schools are under-resourced, and road networks remain poorly developed or completely absent.  ‎ ‎He commended President Kiir for his unwavering support to the local government and for previous intervent...
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‎‎Army Orders -IO and White Army to Release Hijacked Boats or Face Aerial and Riverine Military Action ‎

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‎Tensions are rising in South Sudan’s Jonglei and Unity states after the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) demanded the immediate release of hijacked boats seized by SPLA-IO fighters and White Army militias. ‎ ‎According to a statement issued Thursday, the SSPDF confirmed that eight boats including one belonging to the United Nations and another owned by a Sudanese businessman were forcefully taken at Adok Baar Port in Leer County.  ‎ ‎The boats were transporting passengers and goods when they were intercepted. Passengers were ordered off, and some crew members and civilians were reportedly held hostage, with ransom demands ranging from SSP 10 million to $50,000. ‎ ‎Labeling the incident as “piracy,” Chief of Defense Forces Gen. Dr. Paul Majok Nang warned of possible aerial and riverine military action if the vessels are not released immediately. ‎ ‎This development threatens to further destabilize the region, disrupt humanitarian operations, and inflame tensions between...
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SSPDF Soldiers Ambushed, Disarmed by Civilians in Tonj East,No Injuries Reported. ‎

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‎ SSPDF ‎In a startling incident on Tuesday, a group of 13 South Sudan People's Defence Forces (SSPDF) soldiers was ambushed by armed civilians near Ngap-Agok in Tonj East County, Warrap State.  ‎ ‎The soldiers, who were traveling in a Land Cruiser, were intercepted but managed to return safely to their barracks reportedly without their weapons. ‎ ‎Warrap State Information Minister James Ayiek Bath confirmed the attack, though he assured the public that no injuries were reported during the encounter.  ‎ ‎The circumstances under which the soldiers lost their weapons remain unclear, but the incident has stirred fresh concerns about lawlessness and the continued proliferation of arms among civilians in the region. ‎ ‎A History of Tension ‎This is not the first time Tonj East has made headlines due to clashes between government forces and armed civilians. The area has long been marked by sporadic outbreaks of violence, often fueled by local grievances, cattle raids, and resistance...
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