Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel and Josephine Joseph Lagu were sworn in as South Sudan’s new vice presidents two days after their appointment by President Kiir. Their roles align with the 2018 peace agreement that stipulates five vice presidents. Key changes include the removal of James Wani Igga and Hussein Abdelbagi Akol’s transition to Minister for Agriculture.
Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel and Josephine Joseph Lagu have officially been sworn in as South Sudan’s new vice presidents. Their appointments come just 48 hours after President Salva Kiir announced the changes on Monday night. This action aligns with the structure of five vice presidents established under the 2018 peace agreement in South Sudan.
James Wani Igga, a long-serving vice president and deputy chair of the SPLM Party, has been removed from his position, along with Hussein Abdelbagi Akol from the opposition alliance (SSOA). Akol has transitioned to the role of Minister for Agriculture, succeeding Lagu, who now endeavors as a vice president focused on service delivery.
Benjamin Bol Mel replaces Igga as vice president for the economic cluster, despite being previously sanctioned by the US for corruption allegations in 2017. Previously serving as a special presidential envoy, Mel has been viewed as a potential successor to President Kiir. During the swearing-in ceremony, President Kiir highlighted the necessity for economic reforms in light of the current hardships faced by citizens.
President Kiir tasked Dr. Bol Mel with spearheading reforms aimed at diversifying the economy and improving agriculture to enhance food security. In response, Vice President Bol Mel expressed his gratitude to President Kiir, emphasizing his commitment to prioritizing the economic agenda of South Sudan and advocating for the nation’s position in the region.
Josephine Lagu also expressed her appreciation to President Kiir, pledging to meet the expectations of the South Sudanese people. She underscored the shared obligation of both the government and citizens to enhance living standards and provide essential services throughout the country.
The appointment of Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel and Josephine Joseph Lagu as new vice presidents of South Sudan marks a significant administrative shift established under the 2018 peace agreement. With the focus on economic reform and enhancing food security, both leaders pledged their commitment to serve the nation. This transition signifies an ongoing effort to address the country’s economic challenges and improve the lives of its citizens.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
