On Monday, Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel and Josephine Joseph Lagu were sworn in as new vice presidents of South Sudan, following their appointment by President Salva Kiir. The restructuring comes as part of the 2018 peace agreement, replacing James Wani Igga and Hussein Abdelbagi Akol. Both new vice presidents have pledged their commitment to serving the nation while addressing economic reforms and improving living conditions.
Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel and Josephine Joseph Lagu have been officially sworn in as the new vice presidents of South Sudan, marking their appointment by President Salva Kiir just two days prior. This change comes as part of the country’s governance structure under the 2018 peace agreement, which stipulates a total of five vice presidents.
The reshuffling includes the removal of veteran politician James Wani Igga, who has served since 2013 as well as the ousting of Hussein Abdelbagi Akol from an opposition alliance. Josephine Lagu transitions to the role of vice president focusing on the service cluster, while Akol takes over as the minister for agriculture, replacing her.
Dr. Bol Mel, who previously faced US sanctions for corruption, replaces Igga as the vice president for the economic cluster. Before this appointment, Mel worked as a special presidential envoy for various programs and was often speculated to be a possible successor to President Kiir.
During the swearing-in, President Kiir acknowledged the economic challenges besetting the nation and tasked Vice President Dr. Bol Mel with spearheading significant reforms within the economic sector. Kiir emphasized the necessity of diversifying the economy and enhancing agricultural productivity to boost food security in South Sudan.
In his address, Dr. Bol Mel expressed gratitude to President Kiir, affirming his commitment to serve the country diligently. He stated, “I am committed to advancing our economic agenda and working closely with H.E. to ensure South Sudan secures its rightful place in the region.”
Josephine Lagu also conveyed her appreciation to President Kiir, accepting the responsibilities of her new role. She stated, “I pledge not to disappoint the people of South Sudan,” underscoring the importance of collective efforts to improve essential services and living conditions for citizens.
The swearing-in of Benjamin Bol Mel and Josephine Joseph Lagu as new vice presidents reflects a significant shift in South Sudan’s political landscape, in line with the 2018 peace agreement. Their roles come with the critical task of addressing the country’s economic challenges. President Kiir’s emphasis on reform and agricultural focus points to a strategic direction aimed at enhancing food security and overall living standards.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
