South Sudan’s Kiir dismisses Finance Minister, appoints replacement

South Sudanese President Salva Kiir announced the dismissal of Finance Minister Bak Barnaba Chol on Friday, ushering in a new era with the appointment of Awow Daniel Chuang to the crucial position. The removal of Minister Chol, who assumed office in August the previous year, underscores the government’s response to the escalating economic challenges faced by the nation, largely driven by its heavy reliance on oil revenues.

The decision to replace Minister Chol with Awow Daniel Chuang comes against the backdrop of a deepening economic crisis, marked by the devaluation of the South Sudanese Pound vis-à-vis the dollar. This move signals President Kiir’s determination to address the pressing financial issues gripping the country, which have far-reaching implications for its stability and growth prospects.

Prior to his elevation to the position of Finance Minister, Awow Daniel Chuang served as an advisor in the Petroleum Ministry, bringing with him a wealth of experience and insights into the intricacies of South Sudan’s economic landscape. His appointment reflects a strategic choice aimed at leveraging his expertise to navigate the nation through these turbulent economic times.

This transition in leadership within the Finance Ministry comes at a critical juncture as South Sudan endeavors to stabilize its economy and foster sustainable growth. The introduction of an electronic cargo tracking system, initiated by the Finance Ministry mere days before Minister Chol’s dismissal, underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing revenue collection mechanisms and combating illicit trade practices.

The ministerial directive mandating the implementation of the electronic cargo tracking system for all imports and exports represents a proactive measure aimed at bolstering transparency and efficiency in customs operations. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to revitalize South Sudan’s economy and mitigate the adverse effects of the ongoing economic downturn.

As the nation grapples with the multifaceted challenges posed by the economic crisis, the appointment of Awow Daniel Chuang as the new Finance Minister signals a decisive step towards charting a path to recovery and revitalization. President Salva Kiir’s leadership in effecting this change underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the root causes of economic instability and fostering sustainable development for the people of South Sudan.