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.

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‎He has been replaced by Gieth Kon Mathiang, whose appointment takes immediate effect.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.

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‎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. 

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‎Under his leadership, the NCA launched initiatives to improve mobile connectivity, oversee licensing compliance, and promote local innovation in ICT. 

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‎However, his tenure was also marked by criticism over high data costs and limited access to internet services in rural areas.

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‎The new Director General, Gieth Kon Mathiang, is a relatively lesser known figure in the public domain. 

Observers say his appointment signals a possible shift in the government’s digital policy focus, particularly as the country prepares for national elections and strengthens information controls.

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‎The change in leadership comes at a critical time as South Sudan continues to grapple with issues around cyber regulation, digital literacy, and growing public demand for online freedoms.

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‎This development also raises questions about the government’s broader plans for restructuring national institutions, especially as President Kiir continues to reshuffle key officials across security, finance, and infrastructure sectors.

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‎More updates to follow as this story develops.

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