Former Minister of Presidential Affairs Bangasi Joseph Bakosoro has revealed that his removal from office was influenced by internal disagreements within the Azande community.
South Sudanese President Salva Kiir dismissed Mr. Bakosoro, a prominent politician from Western Equatoria State, from his position as Minister of Presidential Affairs on August 19, 2024. This decision came less than a year after Bakosoro was appointed to the role.
The former minister did not disclose the identities of those individuals. However, there seems to be a political rivalry between Bakosoro and a faction of Azande politicians closely aligned with the president and the decision-making process.
The current parliament speaker, Jemma Nunu Kumba, also hails from the Azande community.
Speaking on Sunday during the third anniversary of the restoration of the Azande Kingdom and the laying of the Royal Palace foundation in Bazungua, Yambio, Bakosoro reflected on his tenure, stating that he remains unfazed by his departure from government.
“My name is Bakosoro. I am not a minister, and I have no personal worries—it is you I care about. Some of you have never held ministerial positions. I have served before, and now I am on leave. I am waiting for two things; either to return to farming or to rise again,” he stated. “A few of our people did not want me to serve in the Office of the President. They preferred someone else in that position. This is disappointing.”
Despite being sacked, Bakosoro reaffirmed his dedication to the progress of the Azande Kingdom, emphasizing the support the institution has received from various leaders.
“Last year, I attended this event with significant support. This year, the approach is different, but what God has given cannot be taken away,” he said. “I will not settle for less, I will either return to farming or take another path forward.”
For his part, Central Equatoria State Governor Agustino Jadalla Wani underscored the importance of traditional leadership in fostering unity and development.
“The Azande Kingdom is more than just a cultural institution, it is a cornerstone of identity, traditions, and governance,” he said. “We must remember our past to build and protect the future for the next generations.”
He emphasized that traditional leadership plays a vital role in maintaining peace, resolving disputes, and guiding communities toward progress.
“As South Sudan strives for lasting peace and development, the role of the Azande Kingdom remains crucial. His Majesty King Atoroba Peni Rikito Gbudue has demonstrated a commitment to unity, cultural preservation, and collaboration with the government. This partnership between traditional leadership and government is essential,” Jadallah said. “For South Sudan to prosper, we must embrace cohesion and collective responsibility. Traditional institutions, such as the Azande Kingdom, complement governmental efforts by ensuring that our people remain engaged, our traditions are upheld, and our communities stay strong.”
To support the ongoing construction of the Azande Royal Palace, Governor Jadalla announced a donation of SSP 25 million from the Central Equatoria State government.
The ceremony highlighted both the achievements and challenges within the Azande Kingdom and broader governance issues. While Bakosoro reflected on his political journey, the speeches emphasized unity, cultural preservation, and collaboration as essential pillars for a stronger future.