South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has defended the appointment of Dr. James Wani Igga as Secretary-General of the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM), insisting the move is not a demotion but a strategic step to strengthen the party.
Kiir issued a series of decrees on February 10, announced on state broadcaster SSBC, which included replacing Igga as Vice President with Benjamin Bol Mel, a close advisor whose influence in government decision-making has grown in recent years.
Bol Mel, a businessman on the U.S. sanctions list for his alleged ties to construction firms accused of money laundering, has been appointed Vice President for the economic cluster. Igga, who remains Kiir’s first deputy in the SPLM, was also named the party’s Secretary-General, a move some observers have interpreted as a demotion.
At a swearing-in ceremony held at the SPLM House in Juba on Tuesday, party members clad in the movement’s signature red attire chanted “SPLM Oyee” as Justice James Alteib officiated the event.
Dr. Igga assumed his new role alongside other key appointments, including Bol Makueng as Secretary for Political Affairs and Mobilization and Kuong Danhier Gatluak as First Deputy Secretary-General.
Kiir, who also serves as SPLM Chairperson, dismissed claims that Igga’s appointment was a downgrade. “This appointment should not be viewed as a demotion,” Kiir said. “It is a recognition of Dr. Igga’s vast experience and unique ability to harmonize the party. His leadership will be crucial in preparing the SPLM for the challenges ahead, including the upcoming elections.”
The President emphasized his commitment to aligning government institutions with the SPLM’s vision, expressing confidence that Igga’s tenure would reinvigorate the party’s foundational objectives. “The SPLM is the founding party of this nation, and it is our duty to ensure it remains strong, united, and ready to lead,” Kiir added.
In his acceptance speech, Igga pledged to bring “new energy and innovation” to the party, thanking Kiir for his trust and reaffirming his commitment to the SPLM’s mission.
“I am honored to take on this role at such a critical time in our party’s history,” Igga said. “I assure all members that these changes will not deter us from advancing the SPLM’s goals. Together, we will work to strengthen our party and prepare for the future.”
The leadership reshuffle comes amid growing political tensions in South Sudan, with the SPLM preparing for elections scheduled for December 2026.
Analysts say the changes reflect Kiir’s efforts to consolidate power within the party while addressing internal divisions.
Edmund Yakani, a South Sudanese political observer, said the swearing-in of Dr. James Wani Igga as the SPLM Secretary-General received mixed reactions from the public.
“Some individuals viewed it as an undermining act, while others saw it as an internal arrangement within the SPLM, provided that consensus was reached among party members,” he said.
Yakani, who is the Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), urged the public to respect the SPLM’s internal arrangements, as long as they do not trigger violence among party members or the general public.
“Real politics is at play within the SPLM. I hope that these developments will serve the common good and not create friction that could potentially lead to violence,” he concluded.