Unity state governor appoints four new ministers and advisors
September 22, 2015 (BENTIU) – The caretaker governor of Unity state, Joseph Nguen Monytuel has, in the wake of the proposed formation of the transitional government of national unity, appointed four new ministers and an equal numbers of state advisors.
The caretaker governor appointed Chuol Biel as minister of cabinet affairs, Simon Chol becomes minister of parliamentary affairs, Joseph Juoi Gathot to Trade and commerce while Tot Dhieydor Tutroal takes over environment and natural resources ministry.
Monytuel also nominated Mawiech Chilieny and Maluok Matai as security and economic advisors respectively. Others are Apollo Maluit and William Bajuoi Makuet.
A member of South Sudan’s ruling Sudan People Liberation Movement (SPLM) told Sudan Tribune, that Monytuel wanted the new group to get a share of the national cake.
“I think the decision by the caretaker governor was to give those who have not held any positions to get something ahead of the formation of upcoming government in the state. We appreciate this step, because most of these comrades have been standing with us for long, and it is time to reward them although it is a short period,” the official, who asked not to be named.
Others, however, say the increase in the numbers of ministers and advisors was to balance positions among counties which beneffitted during 20 months of conflicts.
In 2013, the former governor, Taban Deng Gai reduced ministers to nine after austerity measures were initiated when oil was shut in Unity and Upper Nile states in 2012.
(ST)