Story perspectives

Kiir Dismisses Finance Minister, Appoints Controversial Successor

2/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit dismissed finance minister Bak Barnaba Chol in a state television announcement, the ninth such change since 2020.
Kiir appointed Salvatore Garang, a former finance minister accused of corruption, as the new finance minister.
Analysts say the changes aim to consolidate Kiir's control amid ongoing armed conflict and succession concerns.
The lack of transparency about Chol's dismissal raises questions about governance stability.

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Story summary

South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit dismissed finance minister Bak Barnaba Chol in a state television announcement, the ninth such change since 2020.
Kiir appointed Salvatore Garang, a former finance minister accused of corruption, as the new finance minister.
Analysts say the changes aim to consolidate Kiir's control amid ongoing armed conflict and succession concerns.
The lack of transparency about Chol's dismissal raises questions about governance stability.