Ezekiel Gatkuoth: No one can overthrow President Kiir

JUBA — South Sudan’s newly appointed Minister of Public Service and Human Resources Development, Ezekiel Lol Gatkuoth, has declared that President Salva Kiir Mayardit’s government remains firmly in control of the country, dismissing claims that opposition forces could overthrow the administration as renewed fighting escalates in several regions.

In a statement issued on January 22, Gatkuoth said major cities, including Juba and Bo,r remain secure despite recent advances claimed by the Sudan People’s Liberation Army–in Opposition (SPLA-IO). His remarks come amid heightened tensions between government forces and opposition troops, raising fears of a broader return to conflict.

“Bor, Juba, and all major cities of the Republic of South Sudan will not fall to rebels or to those who wish to destabilise our country,” Gatkuoth said, adding that the government under President Kiir “is not collapsing and it is not going anywhere.”

The statement follows SPLA-IO announcements in recent days claiming control of Waat, Yuai and Pajut in Upper Nile State, Narus County in Eastern Equatoria, and Panyume in Morobo County of Central Equatoria.

While government officials had earlier denied losing territory, Gatkuoth acknowledged that these locations had experienced security challenges, though he insisted they were limited and contained.

He said the government maintains full control of the Bahr el Ghazal region, strong authority across most of Equatoria, and significant control in Upper Nile, describing incidents in Unity and Upper Nile states as minor and being handled by security forces.

“Juba, Bor and all major towns remain secure. Government institutions are functioning, and security forces are present and carrying out their duties,” he stated.

Gatkuoth also criticised social media commentators and diaspora figures for what he called the deliberate spread of misinformation and fear. He accused some online actors of amplifying unverified reports of rebel advances for personal gain, warning that such narratives risk fueling panic among civilians.

“What is troubling is that these voices speak from far away, while it is ordinary South Sudanese who are encouraged to panic or be drawn into conflict,” he said, urging citizens to remain calm and seek verified information.

Reaffirming the authority of the presidency, Gatkuoth warned that any attempt to promote rebellion or incite violence would fail, stressing that the state remains in control and capable of protecting national stability.

“This is a clear message to anyone thinking of promoting violence, rebellion, or misinformation: such actions will not succeed. The law will take its course, and the stability of the nation will be protected,” he added.

He concluded by calling on armed opposition groups and holdout factions to abandon violence and join peace efforts, saying South Sudan’s unity must remain above political and military rivalries.

The statement comes amid military build-up and imminent offensive between the SPLA-IO and SSPDF in Jonglei State as rebel forces vow advance to the capital Juba.