South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has dismissed Finance Minister Athian Diing Athian barely nine weeks after appointing him, the latest in a series of abrupt cabinet changes that have become common in the country’s political landscape.
The state-run South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation announced late Monday that Kiir had replaced Athian with Barnaba Bak Chol — who himself previously served as finance minister until he was removed in March 2024. No official reason was provided for the reshuffle, which marks the eighth change in the finance ministry since 2020.
Political analysts say Kiir’s frequent cabinet reshuffles — especially in crucial portfolios like finance and security — allow him to maintain control within a fragile coalition government while navigating armed groups, complex ethnic alliances, and pressure over who will eventually succeed him.
South Sudan, which gained independence from Sudan in 2011, has struggled to stabilize its government and economy following years of civil war, rampant corruption, and recurring humanitarian crises. Elections, initially expected years ago, have been repeatedly postponed and are now tentatively set for December 2024 — though many observers doubt the country is ready to hold a credible vote.
The political environment remains tense. First Vice President Riek Machar — Kiir’s longtime rival from the 2013-2018 civil war — was charged with treason earlier this year, deepening concerns about whether the country’s fractured elites are genuinely preparing for peaceful elections or simply consolidating power.
South Sudan relies heavily on oil revenue, and the frequent removal of finance ministers has contributed to uncertainty around public spending and economic policy at a time when the nation is grappling with inflation, renewed local clashes, and worsening humanitarian needs affecting millions of civilians.
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Source:Africa Publicity
