President Kiir Appoints New Deputy Governors for Jonglei and Upper Nile States

President Salva Kiir of South Sudan has made significant changes to the leadership of Jonglei and Upper Nile States, relieving the Deputy Governors of both states and appointing replacements in a move announced on State-owned SSBC TV on Monday, March 18, 2024.

In Jonglei State, President Kiir relieved Jacob Akech from his position as Deputy Governor and appointed Atong Kuol Manyang as his replacement. Atong was previously serving as the Minister of Animal Resources and Fisheries but was relieved from her ministerial duties some days ago. Notably, in 2023, she was recognized as the best performing Minister in Jonglei State. Atong is also the daughter of Gen Kuol Manyang, the Senior Presidential Advisor and SPLM Deputy Chairperson.

The appointment of Atong Kuol Manyang as the first female deputy governor in Jonglei State has been welcomed by the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), with Mr. Edmund Yakani, the Executive Director of CEPO, expressing his congratulations to Atong and highlighting the importance of meaningful political participation and representation for women in governance.

Recognizing the significance of Atong’s appointment, CEPO plans to engage the Honourable Deputy Governor of Jonglei State to host the first-ever Female Governors and Deputy Governors conference in Bor in April 2024. This initiative aims to promote women’s participation and representation in the decision-making process, offering an opportunity for meaningful reconciliation and conflict resolution within communities.

In a related move, President Kiir also relieved Hon. Ayong Lual from his position as Deputy Governor of Upper Nile State and appointed Hon. Deng Jock Angong as his replacement.

These changes in leadership mark a significant shift in governance in South Sudan and reflect a growing recognition of the importance of female representation in political leadership roles.