South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has unexpectedly removed Vice-President Benjamin Bol Mel from office, stripping him of his military rank and national security role. Alongside Bol Mel, the central bank governor and revenue authority head—both aligned with him—were also dismissed. The government provided no official explanation for the decision, which was announced via state television.
Bol Mel, 47, had only assumed the vice-presidency in February, replacing veteran politician James Wani Igga. He also held the position of first deputy chairman of the ruling SPLM party, which analysts interpreted as a potential stepping stone to succeed the 74-year-old Kiir. Bol Mel had previously been promoted to full general in the National Security Service despite ongoing US sanctions related to alleged corruption.
His sudden removal has fueled speculation about an internal power struggle within the SPLM and concerns over political instability. Prior to the sacking, Bol Mel’s security detail had been withdrawn from his residence and office in Juba.
South Sudan, an oil-rich nation that gained independence from Sudan in 2011, has been marred by civil war, erupting two years after independence due to disputes between Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar. A power-sharing agreement in 2018 ended open conflict but has been fragile, with sporadic violence and postponed elections contributing to ongoing uncertainty.
Tensions escalated earlier in the year when Machar was removed as vice-president, arrested, and later charged with serious crimes in proceedings viewed by many as politically motivated. Recent clashes between government forces and armed groups loyal to Machar have intensified fears of renewed civil unrest. The latest developments, including Bol Mel’s dismissal, underscore deep divisions within South Sudan’s leadership and the continuing risk of instability in the country.
