By Matik Kueth
President Salva Kiir has sworn in Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel as Vice President for the Economic Cluster and Josephine Lagu for the Service Cluster, marking a key step in governance and economic reforms.
Kiir urged Bol Mel to drive economic transformation, focusing on diversification and food security. Bol Mel pledged loyalty and commitment, vowing to serve without fear or failure for the benefit of South Sudan and the SPLM.
“I am dedicated to advancing our economic agenda and working closely with H.E. to ensure South Sudan secures its rightful place in the region,” Dr. Bol Mel stated.
On her part, Josephine Lagu, sworn in under the South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA) ticket, expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to serve.
“I pledge not to let down the people of South Sudan,” she stressed.
She underlined the collective responsibility of both the Government and citizens in ensuring the provision of essential services and improving living standards across the country.
On February 10, 2025, President Kiir relieved Dr. James Wani Igga from the position of Vice President for Economic Cluster, replacing him with Dr. Bol Mel.
In another surprising decree, Kiir also fired Hussein Abdelbagi Akol from the opposition alliance (SSOA), replacing him with Josephine Lagu as the new Vice President for Service Cluster. Kiir then appointed Abdelbagi as the Minister of Agriculture, replacing Josephine Joseph Lagu from the same SSOA alliance.