Presidential Kiir Appoints Dr. Marial Barnabas  Benjamin as his Presidential Affairs Minister

South Sudan’s president Salva Kiir Mayardit has removed Hon. Nhial Deng Nhial and appointed Dr. Barnabas Marial Benjamin Bil as the minister of Presidential Affairs.

Hon. Nhial Deng Nhial was appointed as the Minister of Presidential Affairs, less than one year ago, in June 2020 to replace Hon. Mayiik Ayii Deng.

The incoming Minister, Dr. Marial Benjamin served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation from 27 July 2013 until he was sacked on March 23, 2016 after making a controversial statement against the people of Abyei.

Prior to his 2013 appointment, Marial served as the Minister of Information from 2010 to July 2013. He also held various positions in the Cabinet of South Sudan since independence in 2005.

Dr. Marial has recently led government delegation to peace talks in Rome and Nairobi, Kenya, to engage holdout groups in attempt to consolidate peace and cease hostilities in the country.