South Sudan’s former Vice President Benjamin Bol Mel has publicly thanked President Salva Kiir for the opportunity to serve, just hours after being unexpectedly removed from office in a sweeping government reshuffle that caught many by surprise.
Mel, 47, was dismissed on Thursday along with the governor of the Central Bank and the Commissioner General of the National Revenue Authority three officials widely seen as close allies within the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM). The government did not offer reasons for the changes, prompting intense public debate and speculation on possible internal rifts.
In a statement addressed directly to President Kiir, Dr Mel expressed gratitude for what he described as “the privilege to serve the people of South Sudan as Vice President and First Deputy Chairperson of the SPLM Party.” He termed the appointments some of the greatest honours of his life and thanked the president for the trust placed in him.
Mel outlined the priorities he pursued while in office, including attracting fresh investments, boosting non-oil revenue collection, and promoting transparency within national financial structures. He also highlighted his work in strengthening diplomatic and economic ties and rebuilding grassroots support for the SPLM ahead of the long-delayed general elections.
“As Vice President, I dedicated myself to advancing your vision for a stable, prosperous and self-reliant South Sudan,” he wrote, praising President Kiir’s “steady leadership” and expressing confidence that the SPLM would continue to rise under his guidance.
Despite the cordial tone, his removal has sparked renewed interest in South Sudan’s political scene. Mel’s elevation in February to First Deputy Chairperson of the SPLM had been widely interpreted as a sign of his growing influence. The sudden dismissal therefore surprised analysts and citizens alike.
The BBC, quoting an unnamed senior official, reported that the decision stemmed from internal party considerations, though this could not be independently verified.
The reshuffle unfolds against a backdrop of prolonged political uncertainty, postponed elections, and continuing tensions despite the 2018 peace agreement intended to stabilise the nation.
Concluding his message, Mel reaffirmed his respect for the presidency: “Thank you for the opportunity to contribute to the progress of our nation.”
