Kiir replaces finance minister, revenue authority commissioner

JUBA – President Salva Kiir has dismissed the Minister of Finance and Planning, Dr Barnaba Bak Chol, and the Commissioner General of the South Sudan Revenue Authority, William Anyuol, barely three months after appointing them to their respective positions.

In a presidential decree read on the state-owned South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) on Monday night, Kiir named Salvatore Garang Mabiordit as the new Minister of Finance and Planning, replacing Dr Bak.

Bak had been appointed in November 2025, taking over from Athian Diing Athian, in what was seen at the time as part of efforts to stabilize the country’s struggling economy.

Garang’s return to the finance docket marks a significant political comeback. He previously served as finance minister but was removed in 2020 after publicly stating that the government lacked funds to pay civil servants. His earlier tenure was also marred by controversy, including the approval of substantial financial requests such as SSP 30 million for his child’s funeral.

Garang was further linked to the controversial mortgaging of South Sudan’s oil to secure a $400 million loan from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank).

The loan arrangement reportedly required advance oil sales extending to 2027 after the government failed to repay the facility in cash, raising concerns about long-term fiscal sustainability.

His reappointment comes at a time when South Sudan is grappling with a worsening economic crisis. Civil servants and members of the organised forces have gone months without salaries, inflation remains high, and public confidence in economic management continues to erode.

In a parallel move, President Kiir also replaced William Anyuol as Commissioner General of the South Sudan Revenue Authority. He appointed Moun Deng Ajuet to the position. Additionally, Deputy Commissioner General Rou Ayii was relieved of his duties and replaced by Solomon Arik.

The reshuffle extended beyond the economic sector. Monica Achol was removed from her role as Presidential Envoy for the Middle East and Gulf Countries.

Her dismissal follows a series of controversies, including allegations that she invoked witchcraft to influence the removal of perceived adversaries and the appointment of allies within government structures. No replacement was named.

No official reasons were provided for Monday’s sweeping changes.