South Sudan President Sacks Aides Over Dead Man’s Appointment
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has sacked two senior aides following an embarrassing situation where he appointed a dead man to serve on a panel leading discussions on elections. The appointment of Steward Soroba Budia, who died five years ago, was announced in a presidential order on January 30, sparking widespread ridicule on social media.
According to the president’s official statement, David Amour Major, the press secretary, and Valentino Dhel Maluet, the chief administrator in the Ministry of Presidential Affairs, have been relieved of their duties. The statement expressed the president’s gratitude for their service, without giving reasons for the dismissal.
The president’s office had relied on the “accuracy and currency” of names submitted by stakeholders for inclusion on the panel, according to a statement by David Amour Major. However, it was later revealed that Budia’s name was included despite his passing, highlighting a significant administrative oversight.
Budia was a signatory to the 2018 peace agreement that ended years of conflict in South Sudan. The panel is tasked with guiding discussions ahead of the country’s long-delayed elections, which have been repeatedly postponed due to political instability and conflict.
The incident has raised concerns about the government’s administrative capacity and governance as the country prepares for a pivotal political moment. The United Nations has reported that over 180,000 people have been displaced by recent fighting, particularly in Jonglei state.
The presidency has vowed to introduce more stringent verification procedures to ensure accuracy in future appointments, according to a statement by the Office of the President.
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Author: Korkor Anumu
