South Sudan's leader Salva Kiir has dismissed Vice-President Benjamin Bol Mel, stripping him of his military rank and removing him from the national security service. This sudden decision was announced in a decree aired on state television, yet no specific reasons were provided.
The sacking of Bol Mel, who had only been appointed as vice-president in February, follows growing political instability and worries about a potential return to civil war. The political landscape has become increasingly precarious after the collapse of a power-sharing agreement between Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar.
In addition to Bol Mel, Kiir also dismissed the governor of the central bank and the head of the revenue authority, both regarded as close associates of Mel. Analysts had previously considered Mel a potential successor to the 74-year-old president.
Despite being sanctioned by the US for alleged corruption since 2017, which were renewed earlier this year, and his designation as Kiir's principal financial advisor, Mel has not responded publicly to the corruption allegations or to his recent dismissal.
Political experts suggest that this shake-up could signify deep internal conflict within the ruling SPLM party, with sources within the government labeling Mel a divisive figure.
With South Sudan's fragile peace hanging in the balance, the dismissal comes at a critical period following years of conflict since the country gained independence in 2011. Planned elections have been delayed, and tensions continue to simmer, prompting fears of escalating violence.
The political turmoil highlights significant ongoing challenges in a nation rich in resources yet plagued by instability and corruption, raising questions about the future of governance and peace in South Sudan.
