South Sudan moves to cut public spending

JUBA — South Sudan’s Cabinet, chaired by President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Friday, moved to cut public spending as part of its efforts to stabilize the economy.

The Cabinet approved a new plan on fiscal discipline and economic recovery after Minister of Finance and Planning Dr. Bak Barnaba Chol presented a memo on financial discipline.

The plan focuses on tightening government spending, increasing revenue, and restoring financial order across public institutions.

Speaking to the press after the meeting on Friday in Juba, Information Minister Ateny Wek Ateny said the government will cut unnecessary tax exemptions costing the country billions in revenue lost.

“This decision is aimed at tightening government spending. All these unnecessary tax exemptions granted to individuals and institutions must come to an end,” Ateny said.

He added that the Cabinet ordered the South Sudan Revenue Authority to cut illegal exemptions to strengthen domestic revenue collection.

“The Council of Ministers has empowered the Revenue Authority to reject any illegal or unjustified exemptions so as to enhance domestic revenue to fund critical government programs.”

The Cabinet also directed the Ministry of Finance and Planning to prioritize the payment of salaries for civil servants and organized forces and to ensure the smooth running of government institutions.

“During the deliberations, the ministers reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Ministry of Finance and Planning in its quest to bring financial order to the country,” Ateny noted.

President Kiir urged ministers to act quickly, stressing that fiscal discipline is key to economic recovery and improving services for citizens.