Admin
Juba, March 11, 2026 — Al-Wadi Newspaper
South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit has dismissed his presidential peace advisor and three deputy governors representing the opposition in the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In-Opposition, in a move described by observers as a major shake-up within the transitional government.
Moses Gatkuoth Lony, who served as peace advisor since 2023, was removed and replaced by Peter Charliman Chawach, a veteran SPLM-IO politician with longstanding ties to Upper Nile State. The decree also affected deputy governors in Eastern Equatoria State, Unity State, and Lakes State.
In Lakes State, Dr. Isaiah Akol Mathiang was replaced by Isaac Luka Manga, while in Unity State, William Gatjang Ging succeeded Tor Tungwar Kueigwong. Mary Alphonse Lodira of Eastern Equatoria was also dismissed and replaced by Karlo Andrew Akuo Ajerry.
The presidency did not provide reasons for the reshuffle. However, officials close to the ruling SPLM party said the changes were aimed at “strengthening cooperation within the unity government” ahead of the long-delayed elections scheduled for December 2026.
Under the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan, the president has the authority to dismiss officials, although such decisions are generally expected to be made in consultation with coalition partners. It remains unclear whether SPLM-IO leadership approved the move, as the opposition remains divided between factions led by acting chair Oyet Nathaniel and peace minister Stephen Par Kuol.
South Sudan has not held any elections since independence. The upcoming vote, repeatedly postponed due to conflict and political instability, is seen as a critical test for the fragile peace process in the country.
