South Sudan’s Kiir, former defence minister hold talks

May 13, 2022 (JUBA) – South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir on Friday met and held talks with former defence minister, Majak D’Agoot in what appeared a renewed commitment between both leaders.

It was not immediately clear what the two leaders discussed during the meeting de Agoot described as “fruitful”, without divulging further details.

“A fruitful meeting with the President of the Republic, H. E. Salva Kiir Mayardit. We extensively explored the economic, security, social, political & diplomatic landscapes relating to our country in view of the current domestic, regional and international fast-changing scenes”, he tweeted.

D’Agoot thanked the South Sudanese leader for warmly welcoming him.

Multiple sources told Sudan Tribune that the meeting between Kiir and D’Agoot occurred in a friendly atmosphere, allowing “candid” conversation.

“The meeting was warm and productive, and they covered a lot of ground”, a presidential source who attended Friday’s meeting disclosed.

“His Excellency the President of the Republic [of South Sudan] was responsive. It was like he was missing Dr. Majak de Agoot. He gave him the time he does not give other visitors and they engaged in a conversation that enabled them to talk about a lot of issues. They touched-on security, economy, foreign relations and the issue of Jonglei canal as well as current affairs”, added the source.

D’Agoot, one of the country’s former detainees, is a critic of the president.

(ST)