Kiir on the spot over delayed appointment of Jonglei Deputy Governor

BOR — The Jonglei Civil Society Network (JCSN), an umbrella organization for civil society groups in Jonglei State, on Tuesday raised concern about the delayed appointment of the deputy governor of Jonglei State.

The Jonglei State Deputy Governor position has been vacant after President Kiir relieved Atong Kuol Manyang, daughter of Senior Presidential Adviser Gen. Kuol Manyang, as State Deputy Governor on 10th March 2025, without replacement, and appointed her as Trade Minister.

The governorship position was allocated to the Sudan South Opposition Alliance (SSOA) and the deputy governor seat to the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM), in accordance with the 2018 peace deal.

But the South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA) agreed to swap the Jonglei governorship with the People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM).

Speaking to Sudans Post on Tuesday, Bol Deng Bol, executive director of INTREPID South Sudan, appealed to the office of the president to fill the vacant post of Jonglei State deputy governor.

“While we acknowledge Governor Kok’s efforts, the deputy governor’s role is essential for effective governance,” Deng said.

Deng stated that the absence of a deputy is raising questions about administrative efficiency and political balance within the state.

“The current situation creates an imbalance and places an undue burden on the governor,” Deng said.

Deng underscored the important role the deputy governor plays in managing administrative duties, as well as working in close coordination with the governor to foster development in the state.

“The constitutional provisions are there for a reason,” said Bol. “A timely appointment would demonstrate a commitment to good governance and ensure that the needs of the people of Jonglei State are adequately addressed.”

He stated prolonged vacancy in the position has left a significant gap in the state’s governance structure.

The outspoken activist emphasized that it is the right of the people to have a fully functional leadership structure.

He called for a swift appointment of deputy governor, underscoring the need for duty sharing to alleviate the governor’s workload and ensure efficient administration.