Gen. Stephen Buay Rolnyang, leader of the South Sudan People’s Movement [Photo: Courtesy].
President Salva Kiir recently relieved the controversial Vice President for the Economic Cluster, Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, popularly known as BBM, from all his positions, including First Deputy Chairperson of the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM).
Bol was also demoted from the rank of General to a private, becoming the second SSPDF Army general to face such a fate after General Stephen Buay Rolnyang. His dismissal and house arrest in Juba marked the abrupt end of a meteoric rise.
As Winston Churchill once said, “In war you can only be killed once, but in politics, many times.” Bol’s journey from rapid elevation to sudden downfall exemplifies the precarious nature of political power in South Sudan.
Rapid promotions and controversy
Bol’s rapid rise began in February 2025 when he replaced long-time Vice President James Wani Igga, who had served since 2013. By May 2025, he was appointed First Deputy Chairperson of the SPLM, placing him just one step away from the President in political hierarchy. Shortly after, he was promoted to full General in the National Security Service (NSS), consolidating his influence in the army.
These promotions were highly controversial. Bol had no prior political experience, and his rapid elevation bypassed SPLM structures such as the National Liberation Council (NLC) and Political Bureau (PB), raising concerns about the legality and legitimacy of his rise. Analysts argued that such appointments undermined party law and threatened the peace process. Many observers predicted that his accelerated rise would inevitably lead to a dramatic fall.
Overreach and political missteps
Bol’s tenure was marked by confrontations and overreach. During the funeral of David Majur Dak in Juba, he issued an order to principals of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) to denounce their army wings under threat of military action. This unilateral declaration raised questions of authority, quo warranto: on whose authority was he speaking? By appearing to usurp presidential authority, Bol positioned himself as a threat to national unity and peace, contributing directly to his downfall.
His political ambitions were also evident in attempts to sideline powerful figures, including First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar. Allegations surfaced that he provided accommodation, transport, and substantial daily payments to the prosecution team in Machar’s trial, though the government denied any wrongdoing.
Bol’s aggressive approach and disregard for senior party structures violated what Robert Greene calls in 48 Laws of Power the principle: “Never outshine the master.” By projecting himself as more powerful than President Kiir, Bol triggered his own downfall. His dismissal on 12 November 2025, demotion, and house arrest demonstrated the use of war principles, particularly surprise, to neutralize a political rival.
Comparing Buay and Bol Mel
While Bol’s fall was dramatic, it cannot be compared in severity to that of General Stephen Buay Rolnayang. Buay’s demotion occurred nearly five years earlier through a court-martial. He endured arrest, public humiliation at Juba International Airport, the execution of three of his bodyguards, denial of food and necessities, and nearly a year in incommunicado detention. Buay was charged with violating SPLA Act 2009 provisions on treason, security, and disobeying orders. Despite two charges being dismissed, he was demoted and dismissed from the military. Unlike Bol, Buay earned his rank through years of struggle and dedicated service.
In contrast, Bol’s military rank had been politically conferred, and his house arrest was far less harsh than Buay’s detention. Furthermore, Buay never sought political power, whereas Bol openly demonstrated presidential ambitions. His acceptance of the Vice Presidency and Deputy SPLM Chairmanship reflected his desire to ascend politically, which contributed to his downfall.
Legacy of loyalty vs ambition
General Buay remains a symbol of dedication to South Sudan’s army. His commitment to reform, unity, and modernization of the armed forces contrasts sharply with Bol’s political maneuvering. While Bol’s fall may be seen as a lesson in overreach, Buay’s demotion represents the sacrifice of a true soldier who loved his country more than himself.
In South Sudanese political history, Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel will be remembered as a formidable yet short-lived vice president who instilled fear across political divides. General Stephen Buay, on the other hand, represents integrity, resilience, and unity, willing to endure personal suffering for the greater good of the army and the nation. Bol’s story serves as a cautionary tale of the perils of rapid political ascent, while Buay’s legacy exemplifies the enduring respect earned through dedication and service.
Note: The views expressed in this ‘opinion’ piece published by King Media are exclusively those of the writer. The author is solely accountable for the veracity of any claims indicated, not King Media.