President Kiir instructs payment of salary arrears, calls for economic reforms
By Emmanuel Mandella
President Salva Kiir yesterday issued a directive to the Minister of Finance and the allied teams to ensure immediate settlement of salary arrears owed to public servants.
This call for action came during the swearing-in of senior government officials that included the new Central Bank Governor, Johnny Ohisa Damian, new Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Paul Nang Majok and Inspector General of Police, Abraham Manyuat Peter.
In his speech, President Kiir stressed the urgency of addressing South Sudan’s economic crisis, which continues to strain citizens across the nation. “It is critical that we correct the current anomalies in the economic sector to alleviate the suffering of our people,” Kiir stated, underscoring the need for strategic reforms.
The President emphasized the critical role of the banking sector in stabilizing the nation’s financial framework. Calling for collective responsibility, Kiir tasked economic institutions with working in tandem to revive South Sudan’s economy. “I expect full cooperation from all economic institutions to contribute to the recovery of our economy,” he said.
He also urged newly sworn-in officials to prioritize measures that would promote economic growth and address fiscal inefficiencies. Kiir’s directive reflects mounting pressure to address the country’s economic challenges, including the rising cost of living and widespread poverty.
Turning to security, Kiir outlined a comprehensive agenda for the newly appointed Chief of Defence Forces and Inspector General of Police. He called for modernization of the armed forces and emphasized the need for responsible use of resources. “The resources allocated to the armed forces should be put to good use, and the welfare of our men and women in uniform attended to,” Kiir said.
Additionally, the President ordered the removal of multiple checkpoints across the country, citing their adverse impact on the free movement of goods and services. “Facilitating the smooth movement of goods and services is essential to the well-being of our people,” he remarked.
President Kiir’s directives come amid heightened calls for comprehensive reforms in South Sudan’s economic and security sectors. His address serves as both a warning and a rallying cry for government officials to rise to the challenges facing the nation.
