Lakes state deputy governor sacked and replaced by security advisor

February 27, 2014 (RUMBEK) – Lakes state military caretaker governor Maj-Gen Matur Chut Dhuol has sacked his deputy governor Mabor Achol Kuer who he appointed 13 months ago shortly after he was installed by President Salva Kiir, replacing the elected governor.

In a decree aired out on state owned radio FM-98 on Thursday that Kuer had been removed from both his position as deputy governor and as minister of education, science and technology without a reason being provided.

Kuer has been replaced by the governor’s security advisor Santo Dumic Chol, who also served under the previous governor Chol Tong Mayay.

Santo continued his role as security advisor when Dhuol was appointed by President Kiir in January 2013. This is Santo’s highest government position.

Governor Dhuol’s administration has come under heavy criticism from young people and activists for its harsh measures in handling state affairs.

Lakes state’s activists and intellectuals accuse Dhuol of having run out of ideas and giving a distorted image to the area to the international community and the rest of South Sudan.

On Wednesday, hundreds of teachers in Rumbek, staged a peaceful demonstration after Governor Dhuol suspended the payment of their allowances without providing a reason.

(ST)

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