South Sudanese President Salva Kiir on Wednesday dismissed Vice President Benjamin Bol Mel and several senior officials in a surprise move that deepened uncertainty over the country’s political future.
A presidential decree broadcast on state television announced the removal of Bol Mel from his roles as vice president and deputy chair of the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM). The decree also dismissed the central bank governor and the head of the revenue authority, both seen as close allies of Bol Mel. No reasons were given for the changes.
Bol Mel, who had been appointed vice president only a few months ago, was widely viewed as a potential successor to Kiir, 74. Security sources in Juba said his guards were withdrawn hours before the announcement, suggesting the move had been planned. His military rank was also downgraded shortly after the decree.
The dismissals are the latest in a series of reshuffles by Kiir, who has replaced eight finance ministers since 2020, as well as other senior officials, in what observers see as an ongoing struggle over control of key state institutions.
Bol Mel has previously faced U.S. sanctions over alleged corruption dating back to his time as a presidential adviser, accusations he has denied. A United Nations report in September said companies linked to him received $1.7 billion for uncompleted road projects.
The move comes amid growing instability in South Sudan, where elections have been repeatedly delayed and First Vice President Riek Machar remains detained on treason charges, raising fears of renewed violence in the fragile nation.
