South Sudanese President Salva Kiir has dismissed Finance Minister Athian Diing Athian, appointing Barnaba Bak Chol as his replacement, just over two months after Athian took office.
This marks the eighth change of finance minister since 2020, with analysts attributing the frequent cabinet reshuffles to Kiir’s efforts to maintain control amid ongoing conflict and speculation about his succession.
The decision comes as South Sudan faces significant economic challenges, including soaring inflation and a depreciating local currency.
Barnaba Bak Chol previously held the position for about half a year until he was fired in March 2024. Kiir has led the transitional government in the impoverished nation since independence from Sudan in 2011, with scheduled elections having been postponed twice.
