Golden Star Media

Thanks to our able President, H.E. Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit, for bringing in new technical advisors who can support the hardworking Hon. Undersecretary of the Ministry of Petroleum.

Eng. Dr. Chol Deng, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Petroleum, can now deliver effectively without unnecessary disturbances.

The former technical advisors were actually working against the system by sabotaging developmental projects being implemented by the ministry, which is one of the reasons the oil sector has been facing many challenges.

There is no way someone can serve as an advisor while not reporting to the office simply because they are jealous of the work of the Undersecretary.

Awuou Daniel Chunong, Mohammad Lino, and William Anyak were working against the government.

Congratulations to the newly appointed advisors, and I wish them all the best in their service delivery.

Thank you, President Kiir.

RECEPTION OF NEW APPOINTED TECHNICAL ADVISERS, AND FAREWELL OF OUTGOING TECHNICAL ADVISERS AND SENIOR TECHNICAL CONSULTANT.

Juba, Friday, March 13th, 2026, Hon. Dr. Chol Deng T. Abel, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Petroleum, has convened a meeting in his office, by informing some Advisers, Directors General, Consultants, about the Presidential Orders, which relieved some senior Technical Advisers and senior Consultant in the Ministry of Petroleum. Dr. Chol Deng, read out the Presidential Orders in presence of MOP's senior officials.

The relieved Senior Technical Advisers and senior Technical Consultant are as follows:

1. Eng. Awow Daniel Chuang, MOP's Senior Technical,
2. Dr. William Anyak Deng, Senior Technical Adviser,
3. Eng. Mohamed Lino Benjamin, senior Technical Consultant.

The new appoint senior Technical Advisers are as follows:
1. Hon. Mayen Wol Jong, MOP' s Senior Technical Adviser,
2. Eng. Kon John Akot, MOP's Senior Technical Adviser.

Eng. Dr. Chol Deng T. Abel, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Petroleum, has warmly welcomed the new appointed senior Technical Advisers, with the spirit of team work and cooperation to develop the nation. He also humbly farewell the outgoing senior Technical Adviser in a good manner. The new senior Technical Advisers have seated in their respective offices, today, March 13th, 2026.

The meeting was fruitful and successful with good spirit.

MOP@daily activities.

Congratulations to Hon. Mayen Wol Jong on his appointment as Senior Technical Advisor to the Ministry of Petroleum.

Molana Mayen Wol Jong is a technical and professional person who can support the ministry. Together with Hon. Undersecretary of the Ministry of Petroleum, Eng. De. Chol Deng, they can deliver services smoothly to the people of South Sudan.

Congratulations to you, Molana. Mayen Wol Jong.

Why Are Loyal SPLM Cadres Being Targeted?
Hon. Gen. James Deng Wal, And Eng. Cde. Dr. Chol Deng Thon.

Recent publications by the SS64 News page appear to be part of a deliberate attempt to tarnish the reputations of committed public servants who are working diligently for the progress of South Sudan. Among those being unfairly targeted are Hon. Gen. James Deng Wal, Executive Director in the Office of the President, and Hon. Eng. Dr. Chol Deng, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Petroleum.

Hon. Gen. James Deng Wal has continued to demonstrate strong leadership and professionalism in the Office of the President since his appointment. Under his administration, the management and protection of official government documents have been handled with great responsibility and discipline. Sensitive documents and presidential decrees are safeguarded with the highest level of confidentiality, and notably, there have been no reported cases of leaked documents from the Office of the President during his tenure. This reflects effective leadership, trust, and a deep commitment to protecting the integrity of the presidency and the institutions of government.

In addition to ensuring order and professionalism within the Office of the President, Gen. James Deng Wal has played an important role in strengthening coordination within the government and supporting the smooth functioning of presidential programs and national priorities.

Likewise, Hon. Eng. Dr. Chol Deng, the Undersecretary in the Ministry of Petroleum, has made significant contributions to the development and stability of South Sudan’s oil sector. His leadership and technical expertise have helped ensure that South Sudan’s oil cargo is successfully lifted and exported to international markets. This progress came after major challenges, including restrictions that previously affected cargo shipments involving the American company BB Energy. Overcoming such obstacles and restoring the country’s ability to export its crude oil is a major achievement that directly contributes to national revenue and economic stability.

Both leaders have shown dedication, professionalism, and loyalty to the vision of national development under the SPLM leadership. Their work demonstrates a clear commitment to strengthening institutions, protecting national resources, and ensuring that government systems operate effectively.

Unfortunately, it is often the case that individuals who work hard and deliver real results become targets of misinformation and politically motivated criticism aimed at undermining their reputations.

The people of South Sudan can clearly see the contributions being made by leaders such as Hon. Gen. James Deng Wal and Hon. Eng. Dr. Chol Deng. Instead of spreading unfounded allegations, it is important to recognize and support those who are genuinely working to serve the country and move South Sudan toward stability, accountability, and development

Hon. Adut Salva Kiir Visits the University of Juba

Hon. Adut Salva Kiir, the able Presidential Envoy on Special Programs, paid a visit to the University of Juba to assess the university environment and explore ways to support improvements that will benefit students, staff, and the academic community.

The visit reflects a strong commitment to strengthening education and ensuring that institutions of higher learning receive the attention they deserve. By engaging directly with the university environment, Hon. Adut aims to identify key areas where support and development are needed.

This is how true leadership works—by listening, observing, and taking practical steps to improve important national institutions such as our universities.

Hon. Adut Salva Kiir continues to demonstrate dedication to national development, particularly in supporting programs that contribute to the growth of education and opportunities for young people.

Indeed, Hon. Adut is a great leader whose efforts inspire progress and positive change.

Response to False Allegations Against Hon. Gen. James Deng Wal Achien by the SS64 News Page

We strongly reject the misleading and politically motivated article circulating online that attempts to tarnish the reputation of Hon. Gen. James Deng Wal Achien, the able Executive Director in the Office of the President.

The claims that Gen. Deng Wal Achien personally promoted members of his family within the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) are completely false and demonstrate a clear misunderstanding or deliberate distortion of how military promotions are conducted in South Sudan.

Promotions within the SSPDF are not decided by a single individual. They follow established military procedures and are approved through formal command structures, and are ultimately endorsed by the Commander-in-Chief, H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit. No officer, regardless of position, has unilateral authority to promote relatives or any other officers.

Attempting to label professional officers as family promotions” without credible evidence is not only irresponsible but also disrespectful to the many soldiers who have served this nation with sacrifice and dedication.

Hon. Gen. Deng Wal Achien has served the Republic of South Sudan with commitment, integrity, and professionalism for many years. His record of service speaks for itself, and those who know his leadership understand his dedication to national unity and institutional discipline.

We urge media outlets and individuals to practice responsible journalism by verifying facts before publishing accusations that can damage reputations and mislead the public.

South Sudan deserves constructive dialogue and responsible reporting—not misinformation aimed at undermining national institutions and respected public servants.

Truth, accountability, and professionalism must guide our national discourse.

𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐒𝐀𝐋𝐕𝐀 𝐊𝐈𝐈𝐑 𝐌𝐀𝐘𝐀𝐑𝐃𝐈𝐓 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐑𝐌𝐒 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐈𝐓𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐓𝐎 𝐃𝐄𝐂𝐄𝐌𝐁𝐄𝐑 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒

𝐉𝐮𝐛𝐚, 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝟔, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 - The President of the Republic of South Sudan, H.E. Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit, on Thursday met with the Chairperson of the National Elections Commission, Professor Abednego Akok Kacoul to review ongoing preparations for the country’s general elections scheduled for December 2026.

During the meeting, Professor Akok provided an update on the Commission’s preparations, noting that plans are underway to announce the official election date in June. He also outlined upcoming activities including the rollout of nationwide civic education and voter registration, which will be launched simultaneously given that the elections are now only eight months away.

The Chairperson explained that the elections will be conducted across 102 geographical constituencies across the 10 States and 3 Administrative Areas. The discussion also addressed several operational considerations related to constituency demarcation and the practical steps required to ensure the electoral process proceeds smoothly.

President Kiir emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum in the preparations and indicated that the government will avail the necessary resource and logistical support required for the successful conduct of the elections in December 2026.

Professor Akok expressed appreciation for the President’s engagement and guidance, describing it as an important source of encouragement for the Commission as it continues its work toward delivering credible and orderly elections for the people of South Sudan.

𝐒𝐄𝐍𝐈𝐎𝐑 𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐀𝐋 𝐄𝐍𝐕𝐎𝐘 𝐄𝐍𝐆𝐀𝐆𝐄𝐒 𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐉𝐔𝐁𝐀 𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐏 𝐎𝐍 𝐈𝐍𝐅𝐑𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐔𝐂𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐅𝐅 𝐖𝐄𝐋𝐅𝐀𝐑𝐄

𝐉𝐮𝐛𝐚, 𝟏𝟏𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 — The Senior Presidential Envoy on Special Programs, Hon. Adut Kiir, held discussions with the Vice Chancellor of University of Juba, Prof. John Akec, on strengthening higher education and improving conditions at the institution.

During the visit, the Senior Presidential Envoy was taken on a tour of the university’s administration and key facilities to assess the current state of infrastructure. While some facilities remain functional, others require renovation and improvement to better serve students and staff.

Prof. Akec also briefed the envoy on several projects initiated in previous years but left incomplete due to funding constraints, emphasizing the need to prioritize their completion.

Hon. Adut Kiir acknowledged the challenges facing the university and stressed the importance of supporting institutions of higher learning, including addressing the welfare of lecturers and improving the academic environment.

Response to the Fabricated Allegations Against Eng. Dr. Chol Deng Thon by the So-Called Joseph Wani Modi Posted by SS64 News

The article circulating online and attributed to a so-called “senior petroleum engineer,” Eng. Joseph Wani Modi, is a fabricated and politically motivated attempt to tarnish the reputation of the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Petroleum, Eng. Dr. Chol Deng Thon. The claims presented are misleading, unverified, and intended to misinform the public about the leadership and management of the petroleum sector in South Sudan.

1. The claim that Eng. Dr. Chol Deng Thon interfered in filling Petronas positions within the Joint Operating Companies (JOCs) is completely false. Appointments within JOCs are conducted according to the established frameworks and agreements under the Exploration and Production Sharing Agreement (EPSA), as well as through coordination between the operating companies and NilePet. The Undersecretary’s role is administrative and policy-oriented within the Ministry of Petroleum, and he does not unilaterally appoint or replace personnel in partner companies.

2. The accusation that Dr. Chol has breached oil and gas standards or procurement procedures by awarding contracts to incompetent companies is entirely baseless. The Ministry follows strict procurement regulations and technical evaluation procedures to ensure transparency, compliance with national laws, and adherence to international industry standards. Any suggestion that contracts are awarded outside the legal framework is not supported by facts and is clearly part of a smear campaign.

3. The allegation that professional and skilled managers have been targeted and replaced with unqualified individuals is also false. Personnel seconded to the JOCs are selected based on qualifications, technical expertise, and the needs of the petroleum sector. The Ministry of Petroleum, under the leadership of the able Undersecretary Eng. Dr. Chol Deng Thon, continues to prioritize professionalism, capacity building, and institutional strengthening to improve productivity and operational stability across the oil industry.

Furthermore, the broader claim that the actions of Dr. Chol Deng Thon could cause the withdrawal of partners such as China National Petroleum Company (CNPC) from South Sudan’s oil sector is irresponsible and unfounded. South Sudan’s petroleum sector remains governed by binding agreements and long-standing partnerships with international companies that operate within clearly defined legal and operational frameworks.

It is also important to clarify that the individuals behind this false propaganda are hiding behind a fake platform calling itself SS64 News, falsely claiming to represent a senior petroleum engineer. These claims are not credible. Evidence indicates that this propaganda campaign is being promoted by individuals who previously abused their positions in the petroleum sector and are now attempting to undermine the current leadership of the Ministry.

In particular, the activities linked to the network of the former Vice President of GPOC, Saber Ojak Chol, and Deng Lual Wol—who is currently detained by security authorities for alleged involvement in the looting of oil revenues—both former officials associated with misconduct in the Ministry, suggest a deliberate attempt to destabilize and discredit the progress being made within the petroleum sector by Eng. SPLM loyal carder Eng. Dr. Chol Deng Thon.

The public is therefore urged to treat such fabricated reports with caution and to rely on verified information from official government channels. The leadership of the Ministry of Petroleum of South Sudan, under the guidance of the government and the President of the Republic, Salva Kiir Mayardit, remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the sustainable development of South Sudan’s vital oil industry.

Misinformation and politically motivated attacks will not derail the ongoing efforts to strengthen governance, professionalism, and stability within the petroleum sector of South Sudan.

Golden Star Media

South Sudan Condemns Iran’s Missile and Drone Attacks on Gulf and Regional States

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of South Sudan has condemned missile and drone attacks allegedly launched by Iran against several countries in the Gulf and beyond.

Juba called the strikes unjustifiable violations of international law and the United Nations Charter, urging peace and stability in the region.

For immediate release

Press release

SSPDF orders for UNMISS withdrawal from Akobo and evacuation/ relocation of all civilians.