The daughter of South Sudanese President Salva Kiir was sworn in Friday as Senior Presidential Envoy for Special Programs, a move that has sparked debate over nepotism and meritocracy in the country’s top leadership.
Adut Salva Kiir Mayardit took the oath of office at a ceremony at the State House in Juba, alongside other newly appointed officials. Her appointment was announced Wednesday in a presidential decree.
The role places the president’s daughter in a key position overseeing government initiatives, managing international partnerships, and coordinating investment programs. Supporters say she is qualified in her own right, but critics have condemned the decision as an example of political favoritism.
Also sworn in Friday were Athian Diing Athian as Minister of Finance and Planning, and Joseph Mum Majak as Minister of Investment.
President Kiir, in a brief address, urged the new officials to work collaboratively and focus on meeting the needs of South Sudanese citizens. He called on the finance ministry to stabilize the economy, improve fiscal discipline, and promote transparency in financial institutions.
“To the Minister of Investment, your job is to attract meaningful investments that bring real development outcomes for our people,” Kiir said.
The swearing-in ceremony comes a day after Kiir dismissed Finance Minister Marial Dongrin Ater, who had served since July 2024. A reason for his removal was not given. Athian previously held the finance portfolio from 2020 to 2021.
Kiir also removed Investment Minister Dr. Dhieu Mathok and replaced him with Mum Majak.
South Sudan’s economy has struggled in recent years amid recurring violence and a sharp decline in oil revenues, worsened by disruptions linked to ongoing conflict in neighboring Sudan. The International Monetary Fund projects the country’s economy will contract by 4.3% in 2025, with inflation expected to rise to 65.7%.
President Kiir has ruled South Sudan since it gained independence from Sudan in 2011. In March, First Vice President Riek Machar was placed under house arrest, raising fears of renewed political instability.