Kiir orders police reforms as SPLM-IG seals control over interior, defence ministries

JUBA — President Salva Kiir Mayardit has ordered sweeping reforms within South Sudan’s police force as the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Government (SPLM-IG) consolidates its grip on the country’s key security ministries following the latest cabinet reshuffle.

Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony of newly appointed government officials in Juba on Wednesday, Kiir directed the new Minister of Interior, Aleu Ayieny Aleu, to reorganise the national police service to strengthen enforcement of the rule of law and curb rising criminality. He said the reforms are necessary to ensure citizens can carry out their daily activities without fear or insecurity.

Aleu’s appointment marks his return to the interior docket, a position he previously held between 2013 and 2016. He replaces Angelina Teny, the wife of suspended First Vice President Riek Machar, who was removed from the post through a Republican Decree issued earlier this week.

Aleu’s installation also carries broader political significance. The move represents a departure from the power-sharing arrangement outlined in the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), which allocates the interior ministry to SPLM-IG and the defence ministry to the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO).

President Kiir had previously reshuffled these portfolios in 2023, appointing Angelina to the interior and Gen. Koang to the defence, a decision that drew strong criticism from opposition groups who accused the government of undermining the peace deal.

The latest changes now firmly consolidate SPLM-IG control over both institutions at a time when political tensions and localised insecurity continue to test the fragile transition.

The swearing-in ceremony also saw Ezekiel Lol Gatkuoth appointed Minister of Public Service and Human Resources Development, Anthony Lino Makana as Minister of Labour, and Sarah Nyanath Elijah Yong as Minister of Culture, Museums, and National Heritage.

Kiir instructed the Minister of Labour to safeguard workers’ rights and ensure fair treatment of employees across sectors. He further tasked the Minister of Public Service with accelerating administrative reforms to guarantee that civil servants receive their rightful benefits and recognition.

In a separate directive, the president urged the Governor of Lakes State to sustain existing security gains, stressing that peace at the state level remains essential for national cohesion and development.

The cabinet changes come as South Sudan prepares for highly anticipated general elections scheduled for December 2026, amid growing calls for security sector reforms and renewed commitment to the peace agreement.