Former finance minister dismisses NSS arrest rumours, thanks Kiir after removal

JUBA – Former Minister of Finance and Planning Dr Bak Barnaba Chol has dismissed widespread social media claims that he was arrested by the National Security Service (NSS), describing the reports as false.

In a statement issued Tuesday, Barnaba reassured the public that he is safe and continuing with his normal activities, a day after President Salva Kiir removed him from office through a presidential decree broadcast on South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC).

“I want to reassure everyone that I am safe, well, and continuing with my normal activities,” Barnaba said. “The reports circulating on social media claiming that I have been arrested are completely false. I remain at peace and in good health.”

President Kiir’s decree, read on Monday night, replaced Barnaba with Salvatore Garang. No official explanation was provided for the reshuffle, which also affected other senior government officials.

Shortly after the announcement, unverified reports began circulating online alleging that Barnaba had been detained by the NSS.

Some posts went further, claiming that several NSS and South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) officers were also arrested following his dismissal. The claims also alleged that certain generals were found with large sums of money and that former government officials had been taken into custody.

However, Barnaba categorically rejected the reports, calling on citizens to disregard misinformation.
In his statement, the former minister also expressed gratitude to President Kiir for the opportunity to serve in one of the country’s most critical portfolios.

“I am deeply grateful to His Excellency the President Salva Kiir Mayardit for the trust and responsibility he placed in me during my service as Minister of Finance and Planning,” he said. “Serving our nation in that role was a profound honour, and I am proud to have contributed, in whatever way I could, to the development of South Sudan.”

Barnaba further thanked his colleagues, development partners and the citizens of South Sudan for their cooperation during his tenure.

“I also wish to sincerely thank my colleagues, our partners, and above all, the citizens of South Sudan for their cooperation and support throughout my tenure,” he added, concluding by reaffirming his commitment to national peace and stability.

“My commitment to the peace, stability, and prosperity of our beloved Republic remains unwavering,” Barnaba said, encouraging the public to rely on official and credible sources for accurate information.

The clarification appears aimed at calming speculation that followed his abrupt removal, as questions linger over the reasons behind the latest changes in the country’s economic leadership.