Full Breakdown
South Sudan's Leadership Shake-Up: Dismissals and Appointments by President Salva Kiir
2/4/2026, 2:57:39 AM
Key Leadership Changes Announced
On February 3, 2026, South Sudan's President Salva Kiir announced significant changes within his administration, dismissing two senior officials and appointing a new chief administrator. Valentino Dhel Malueth was removed from his position as chief administrator at the Ministry of Presidential Affairs, while David Amour Majur was relieved of his duties as press secretary. The announcement was made through a presidential decree issued by the Minister of Presidential Affairs, Africano Mande Gedima. Marik Nanga Marik has been appointed as the new chief administrator, effective immediately.
Background of the Dismissed Officials
David Amour Majur, who served as press secretary for over a year, was a controversial figure, particularly due to a public incident involving a legal practitioner, Josephine Adhet Deng. In September 2025, a case was filed against him for intimidation and defamation, which was later dismissed due to insufficient evidence. Valentino Dhel Malueth had been in his role since November 2025, following a previous appointment that replaced Sebit Bullen Komonde.
Additional Reshuffles in State Leadership
In a related move, President Kiir also dismissed James Ateib Jaz Berapai as governor of Western Equatoria and Zachariah Joseph Garang as deputy governor of Western Bahr el Ghazal. Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa was appointed as the new governor of Western Equatoria, while Chum Edward Dimo took over as deputy governor of Western Bahr el Ghazal. Both new appointees are members of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM), the ruling party in South Sudan.
Official Statements and Responses
The official statement from the presidency expressed "profound gratitude" to the outgoing officials for their service. It noted that the changes were effective immediately, although no specific reasons for the dismissals were provided. The government indicated that a replacement for the press secretary position would be announced "in due course."
Criticism and Opposition
The dismissals, particularly that of David Amour Majur, have drawn attention due to his controversial past. Critics have pointed to his public outburst and the subsequent legal issues as indicative of broader governance challenges within Kiir's administration. The lack of transparency regarding the reasons for these leadership changes has also raised questions among observers about the stability of Kiir's government.
What's Next
The recent reshuffles come amid ongoing challenges in implementing the 2018 power-sharing agreement between President Kiir and his first deputy, Riek Machar, who is currently facing treason charges. The political landscape in South Sudan remains fluid, and further changes in leadership may occur as the government navigates these complexities.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The Office of the President hereby informs the General Public that it has pleased His Excellency the President… to announce the following Republican Decrees,” — Africano Mande Gedima, Minister of Presidential Affairs
- “H.E. the President further wishes to express his profound gratitude to the outgoing officials for their dedicated service and contributions to the Nation during their tenure,” — Africano Mande Gedima, Minister of Presidential Affairs
