Juba – South Sudan’s official television announced a cabinet reshuffle on Monday evening. President Salva Kiir carried out the changes. Finance Minister Bak Barnaba Chol was dismissed. He had held the position for three months. Chol took office in November 2025.
He succeeded Athian Ding Athian. Athian had been appointed just two months earlier. Juba TV reported Kiir appointed a new Finance Minister. The new minister is Salvatore Garang. Garang is an economist. He previously held the finance portfolio. His prior term was from 2018 to 2020. That period was marked by economic reforms. It also saw significant financial pressures.
The decree also led to other dismissals. Many senior officials were removed. This included the Commissioner General of the National Revenue Authority. These are part of broader administrative changes. Analysts say Kiir regularly makes changes. These affect military and government ranks.
He does this to maintain control. This occurs amidst armed conflict. There is also speculation about his potential succession. No reason was given for this latest change. This is the ninth change in the finance minister post since 2020.