By HAN News Desk
JUBA — President Salva Kiir Mayardit has dismissed Vice President Benjamin Bol Mel and removed him from his position in the National Security Service (NSS), according to a presidential decree broadcast on the state-run South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC) on Thursday evening.
The announcement, delivered without prior warning, marks a dramatic political shift within South Sudan’s leadership. While the government has not provided an official explanation for the decision, political analysts say the move reflects growing tensions within the ruling elite and may signal an upcoming cabinet reshuffle.
Benjamin Bol Mel, who has long been a close ally of President Kiir and a key figure within both the government and business circles, played a prominent role in the country’s post-war economic reconstruction and investment sectors. His removal, therefore, comes as a surprise to many observers and could have wide-ranging political implications.
Sources close to the presidency told BBC News that internal disputes over security sector management and recent disagreements within the National Security Service may have contributed to the decision.
The NSS, one of South Sudan’s most powerful security organs, has faced criticism from human rights groups for alleged abuses and lack of oversight. The dismissal of a senior figure associated with the institution could be part of broader efforts by President Kiir to consolidate control ahead of next year’s anticipated elections.
There has been no immediate response from Benjamin Bol Mel or his representatives. Meanwhile, the presidency has yet to announce a replacement for the vice president role or confirm whether further reshuffles are expected in the coming days.
Observers say the move underscores the fragility of South Sudan’s power-sharing arrangements and highlights President Kiir’s ongoing attempts to strengthen his grip on both political and security institutions in the country.
