JubaWire

‎ ‎South Sudan is set to witness one of the most consequential political and legal events in its young history, as the long-awaited trial of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar Teny begins on Monday, September 22, 2025, at Freedom Hall in Juba. ‎ ‎The trial, which also involves seven senior members of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In Opposition (SPLM-IO), will be broadcast live on the state-owned South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC), in what government officials describe as a measure of transparency and accountability. ‎ ‎SSBC to Broadcast Proceedings Live ‎ ‎Government spokesperson Anthony Gore confirmed the live coverage on Sunday, saying the case is of “national importance” and that the South Sudanese people deserve to follow the process closely. ‎ ‎“This is not an ordinary trial. It concerns a leader who has been central to the country’s politics for decades. For that reason, the government has decided to allow the public to witness the proceedings in real time,” G...

HocThon Laat Maker Riak CEO of ACIBIKLEUYIC, political activist, staunch supporter of the Government of South Sudan, and PhD candidate has arrived in Juba alongside the renowned Pan-Africanist and legal luminary, Prof. PLO Lumumba. Their arrival has generated excitement among scholars, policymakers, and young leaders, with expectations that the duo will engage in high-level discussions on governance, leadership, and Pan-African unity.  Prof. Lumumba, widely celebrated for his eloquence and bold advocacy for African solutions to African challenges, is expected to deliver inspirational lectures and interact with South Sudanese intellectuals. HocThon Laat Maker Riak, on the other hand, has been actively championing youth empowerment and policy reforms in support of the government’s agenda. His collaboration with Prof. Lumumba underscores a growing effort to bridge intellectual activism with practical governance solutions in South Sudan. -

‎ ‎The commander of South Sudan’s elite presidential guard, Major General Philip Nyon, has carried out sweeping changes within the close protection team guarding President Salva Kiir Mayardit.  ‎ The dramatic shake-up, which has already stirred speculation across the capital, saw two senior officers removed from their influential positions and barred from accessing the head of state. ‎ ‎According to multiple sources, Brigadier General Bang Wieu, who previously headed the close presidential protection unit, has been dismissed and replaced by Brigadier General Madut Ayai.  ‎ In a parallel move, Colonel Mawien Garang, a longtime aide and personal assistant to the president, was also relieved of his role. ‎ ‎Both men, who have been key fixtures in Kiir’s inner circle for years, have reportedly been prohibited from entering M4, the heavily guarded close protection base near the president’s residence.  ‎ The decision effectively severs their direct access to the head of state. ...

‎ President Salva Kiir Mayardit has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting Lakes State in overcoming current challenges and achieving lasting peace and development. ‎ ‎The President made the remarks on Friday after receiving a comprehensive report from Lakes State Governor Rin Tueny Mabor on the humanitarian and security situation in the state. ‎ ‎Governor Rin informed the President that widespread floods have devastated several counties, including Awerial, Rumbek East, Cueibet, and Wulu. The floods have destroyed farmland, displaced households, and affected thousands of livestock, which serve as a major source of income and food security for local communities. ‎ ‎Despite these challenges, Governor Rin said security in the state remains largely stable, with only a few isolated incidents of cattle raiding reported along the borders.  ‎ He noted that these incidents remain a persistent threat to peace and livelihoods in the region. ‎ ‎The Governor also appealed for the ...

‎ ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Thursday received a detailed briefing from Warrap State Governor Bol Wek Agoth on the prevailing situation in the state, with peace and security taking center stage in their discussions. ‎ ‎Governor Wek informed the President that he had conducted an extensive tour across various counties of Warrap to consult local authorities, traditional leaders, and community representatives on ways to address insecurity and strengthen social cohesion. ‎ ‎One of the key initiatives highlighted was the ongoing disarmament exercise, which Governor Wek described as vital to curbing inter-communal violence and ensuring lasting peace.  ‎ He explained that removing illegal firearms from civilian hands is not only a step toward security but also a foundation for development and harmony among communities long divided by cycles of revenge attacks and cattle raids. ‎ “The disarmament process is central to achieving stability in Warrap. It is through this initiative that...

‎ ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has received a comprehensive report from the Power Purchase Review Agreement Committee, chaired by Engineer Madhieu Acuil Mawien, the Undersecretary in the Ministry of Energy and Dams. ‎ ‎The committee was assigned to review the power purchase agreement between the Government of South Sudan and Ezra Construction and Development Group.  ‎ According to Engineer Madhieu, the President instructed the team to ensure the agreement is aligned with the country’s electricity policy and national interests. ‎ ‎Key areas under review include: ‎ ‎Equity structure and shareholding entitlements between the government and Ezra Construction. ‎ ‎Ownership stakes in Juba Electricity Distribution Company (JEDCO). ‎ ‎Tariff reductions to make electricity more affordable for citizens. ‎ ‎Restructuring power distribution through JEDCO to improve efficiency. ‎ ‎Engineer Madhieu stressed that the committee’s mandate involves consulting all parties to ensure a sustainable an...

‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has appointed Tejwok Simon Ajak as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Communication Authority (NCA), replacing Prof. John Akec, whose term has officially ended.  ‎ The appointment, announced through a presidential decree, marks a significant leadership shift in South Sudan’s fast-evolving communication and technology sector. ‎ ‎The NCA, a regulatory body established to oversee telecommunications and digital communication services, plays a pivotal role in connecting the country’s citizens, enforcing standards, and fostering innovation in the ICT space.  ‎ A change at the top, therefore, has wide-ranging implications for the nation’s digital future. ‎ ‎Who is Tejwok Simon Ajak? ‎ ‎Though not widely known in the public domain compared to his predecessor, Tejwok Simon Ajak is recognized within policy and governance circles as a professional with experience in public administration and regulatory affairs.  ‎ His appointmen...

‎ President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Wednesday held a strategic meeting with Vice President Josephine Joseph Lagu, who will lead South Sudan’s delegation to the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. ‎ The annual summit, which brings together global leaders, will focus on strengthening multilateral cooperation under the theme: “Better Together: 80 Years and More for Peace, Development and Human Rights.” ‎ ‎The meeting between President Kiir and Vice President Josephine was not just a formality but a key consultation on the country’s agenda at one of the most important diplomatic stages in the world. South Sudan, the youngest nation in the international community, is set to use this opportunity to make its voice heard on global issues while also rallying international support for its domestic priorities. ‎ ‎A Platform for South Sudan’s Global Engagement ‎This year’s UNGA is particularly significant for South Sudan, which is at a critical crossroads. The co...

‎The Presidency in a move signaling renewed emphasis on strengthening South Sudan’s defense and security leadership, President Salva Kiir Mayardit, the Commander-in-Chief of all organized forces, presided over the promotion of several top generals in the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the National Security Service (NSS). ‎The promotions, announced and conferred at the President’s office in Juba on Monday, were witnessed by senior government officials, including the Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, General Chol Thon Balok. ‎Among the most notable elevations was that of Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, who now becomes a full General in the National Security Service (NSS), having risen from the rank of Lieutenant General.  The announcement marks the culmination of Bol Mel’s rapid rise within the security architecture and further cements his role in shaping the country’s political and military future. ‎The Key Promotions ‎Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, Vice Preside...

‎Health, Relief, and National Security Shake Up Signals New Political Realignment ‎ ‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has issued a wave of presidential decrees, reshuffling leadership in three of South Sudan’s most sensitive institutions: the Ministry of Health, the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC), and the National Security Service (NSS). ‎ ‎The decrees, announced on State-run South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) on Wednesday evening, have already ignited heated political debate. While the presidency gave no reasons, analysts say the shake-up is tied to performance, political loyalty, and election calculations. ‎ ‎1. Aniin Ngot Ngot Out as Health Undersecretary ‎Profile: Who is Aniin Ngot Ngot? ‎Aniin Ngot Ngot, a career civil servant, has long been a fixture in the Ministry of Health. Rising through the ranks of public administration, he was appointed Undersecretary during the height of South Sudan’s post-war reconstruction efforts. ‎As Undersecretary, Aniin oversaw the...

‎Key Points: Kakuma Refugee Hunger Crisis ‎ ‎1. Mass Exodus: Thousands of South Sudanese refugees are leaving Kakuma Camp, trekking back home due to hunger. ‎ ‎2. Severe Food Cuts: Rations slashed; many families get little or no food. ‎ ‎3. Not a Choice: “We are not walking out of choice. Hunger is killing us here,” said one refugee. ‎ ‎4. Dangerous Return: Refugees risk insecurity, hunger, and floods in South Sudan. ‎ ‎5. Aid Funding Gap: U.S. Trump-era cuts + global donor fatigue worsened the crisis. ‎ ‎6. Host Communities Struggling: Poverty in Turkana, Kenya, adds pressure on locals and refugees alike. ‎ ‎7. Protection Crisis: Refugees face an impossible choice starvation in exile or insecurity back home. ‎ ‎South Sudanese Refugees Flee Kakuma Refugee Camp as Hunger Crisis Deepened as mass exodus is unfolding at Kakuma Refugee Camp in northwestern Kenya. For years, this dusty settlement in Turkana West County has been a place of refuge for South Sudanese fleeing war, famine, and pe...

‎ ‎Central Equatoria State (CES) security forces have arrested 623 individuals suspected of affiliation with notorious street gangs in Juba as part of a sweeping anti-crime operation across the capital . ‎ ‎The suspects are allegedly linked to high-profile gangs such as 4SG Slime, West Coast, ODA, Killers Gang, Black Devils, among others. ‎ ‎While detailed profiles of the detainees remain pending, officials emphasize the operation is in direct response to a recent surge in heinous criminal activity including a particularly disturbing gang rape in the Shirikat area of Juba, which sparked national outrage and hastened the crackdown.  ‎ ‎In the wake of the arrests, CES Governor Rabi Emmanuel Mujung has renewed calls for reformatory schools aimed at providing vocational training and rehabilitation for youth implicated in gang activities. ‎ ‎This includes proposals for a holistic strategy pairing enforcement with social and mental health support a key element raised during recent securi...

‎ ‎In a significant diplomatic move, the Russian Federation is preparing to open its embassy in South Sudan between September and October 2025, marking a major milestone in the strengthening of bilateral ties between the two nations. ‎ ‎The news was confirmed by South Sudan’s Ambassador to Russia, Chol Tong Mayay, during a farewell event for a South Sudanese ICT delegation that recently attended the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF 2025). ‎ ‎A Long-Awaited Diplomatic Presence ‎The planned opening of a Russian embassy in Juba is seen as a long-overdue development in South Sudan-Russia relations.  ‎ ‎Since South Sudan gained independence in 2011, Russia has maintained diplomatic accreditation to Juba from its embassy in Khartoum.  ‎ ‎The establishment of a permanent diplomatic mission in the South Sudanese capital is expected to significantly boost cooperation, streamline consular services, and facilitate more direct political, economic, and cultural exchanges....

‎A violent land dispute in Mayendit County, Unity State, has left one woman seriously injured and a prison officer in police custody after a shocking spear attack that has raised new concerns about land conflict and abuse of authority in South Sudan. ‎ ‎The Dispute That Escalated ‎According to local authorities, the incident occurred in Rubkuay Payam on Monday, June 23, when a disagreement between a prison officer and a local woman over land ownership spiraled into violence. ‎ ‎The prison officer, identified as Tap Dak, had reportedly been allocated the disputed land through an official government land survey.  ‎ ‎However, the original occupant, a woman named Nyakuol, refused to vacate the property. Eyewitnesses say that after a heated verbal exchange, Dak reacted violently. ‎ ‎“He lost the debate and took his spear and speared the woman twice in the stomach and in the hand,” said Lieutenant Colonel Tap Door, head of the police in Mayendit. ‎ ‎Nyakuol was critically injured in the ...

Lakes State  prison facilities in Lakes State has triggered a major public health emergency, as health authorities confirm that more than 130 inmates have been infected with monkeypox, chickenpox, and smallpox-like illnesses.  ‎ ‎The affected prisons, Rumbek Main Prison and Pachong Prison, are grappling with overcrowding and poor sanitation, making it difficult to contain the spread of the disease. ‎ ‎Since April 17, 2025, health officials have recorded 134 suspected cases, including two confirmed cases of monkey-pox. The situation has prompted urgent intervention from the Ministry of Health and its humanitarian partners Sparks Health Emergency in Lakes State ‎An outbreak of infectious diseases in two prison facilities in Lakes State has triggered a major public health emergency, as health authorities confirm that more than 130 inmates have been infected with monkeypox, chickenpox, and smallpox-like illnesses.  ‎The affected prisons, Rumbek Main Prison and Pachong Prison,...

‎ President Salva Kiir Mayardit has embarked on an official diplomatic visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), signaling a renewed effort by the Government of South Sudan to strengthen bilateral ties, attract foreign investment, and advance regional peace through economic diplomacy. ‎ ‎According to Presidential Press Secretary Ambassador David Amuor Majur, the visit will include high level meetings with Emirati government officials and top investors, with a focus on building confidence in South Sudan’s economic potential. ‎ ‎“President Kiir is presenting a compelling case for investment, based on recent reforms that have improved the ease of doing business in South Sudan,” said Ambassador Amuor. ‎ ‎A Growing Partnership ‎The UAE has been a strategic diplomatic and economic partner for South Sudan since the young nation gained independence in 2011. Over the years, relations have grown, especially in areas of humanitarian aid, trade, and investment interest. ‎ ‎In 2022, the UAE hosted t...

‎ President Kiir.  ‎In a significant political shift ahead of South Sudan’s much anticipated general elections, President Salva Kiir has appointed Comrade Paul Logole as the new Secretary General of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM), and Comrade Baba Medan as Deputy Secretary General. ‎ ‎The announcement was made via state broadcaster SSBC, and it marks one of the most consequential changes in SPLM’s top leadership in recent years. ‎ ‎Who Are the New SPLM Leaders? ‎Paul Logole  Secretary General ‎Paul Logole is a veteran SPLM figure known for his quiet discipline, organizational skills, and long term loyalty to the movement.  ‎ ‎While not widely visible in the public eye, he has played key roles behind the scenes in party management and coordination.  ‎ ‎As Secretary General, Logole will now be in charge of the day-to-day operations of the SPLM, including planning for the upcoming elections. ‎ ‎Baba Medan  Deputy Secretary General ‎Baba Medan is a dy...