Senior Cabinet Minister resigns over deepening political crisis

MALAKAL — A senior cabinet minister of South Sudan’s Upper Nile State on Monday resigned from government, citing a deepening political crisis that he says has hindered effective governance and service delivery.

David Nyang Kueth, State Cabinet Affairs Minister, said the current environment had made it difficult for him to perform his duties effectively.

“After careful reflection and with a heavy heart, please accept this as a formal resignation from the position of Minister of Cabinet Affairs in the government of Upper Nile State, effective immediately,” Nyang said in a letter addressed to Jacob Dollar Ruot, Upper Nile State Governor.

He stated that his decision to resign from his ministerial position was influenced by the current political and humanitarian crisis in the country, which exacerbated the suffering of the people and weakened the fundamental objectives of governance.

“I have reached the painful conclusion that I can no longer, in good conscience, continue to serve in a government that inflicts harm on its own citizens, deepens tribal polarisation, and perpetuates their suffering rather than providing them with security, justice, and dignity.”

He stated that his decision to resign is not motivated by personal grievances but rather by a strong sense of duty and the belief that true change starts with honesty and courage.

“Although I now step down from this official responsibility, my commitment to the people and the future of Upper Nile State remains unchanged. I will continue to support all peaceful and democratic efforts aimed at ending the suffering of our people and restoring legitimacy, justice, and compassion at the heart of governance.”

He stated that continuing to hold office under those circumstances would be equivalent to an unspoken approval of a system that no longer reflects the hopes or welfare of the people.

“I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the people of Upper Nile, my colleagues in the government, and those who have supported my tenure in public service. My decision to resign is not out of personal grievance but out of a deep sense of duty and conviction that genuine change begins with truth and courage,” he said.

Nyang stated that the government has failed to adequately protect its citizens, resulting in a loss of legitimacy.

“The continued violence, displacement, and neglect witnessed across the country demand moral and political accountability from those of us in positions of leadership. It has become increasingly clear that the current system has strayed from the principles of service, justice, and accountability for which our people have sacrificed so much.”

Jacob Dollar Ruot, the Upper Nile State governor, has not yet commented or announced a successor.