Akec Tong Aleu, governor of the newly created Tonj State, has issued an order appointing his cabinet ministers and advisors, dispelling speculations that his cabinet picks had been rejected by the president.

According to the order announced on Monday, Akec appointed Atek Madhar minister of local government, James Macok Deng Arol as minister of finance, and Madit Malek as information minister.

Sabisa Awut was named the minister of education and James Gabriel as the minister of agriculture. The health portfolio has been filled by an official from South Sudan Democratic Forum.

In another development, Akec appointed Andrew Kuac Mayol as the political advisor, Kon Bol as peace and reconciliation advisor and Mario Awuoc as security advisor. Another official appointed by separate order was Daniel Makol Dhal as commissioner of the headquarters.

Tonj State is one of 28 states created by President Salva Kiir by decree but challenged as unconstitutional by a coalition of opposition parties.

Monitors of the peace agreement have called the creation of the 28 states a “violation” of the peace agreement. Salva Kiir says the 28 states are the demand of the people.