Juba, South Sudan — the Chairman of the National Democratic Movement (NDM), Dr. Lam Akol, has issued a strong protest against the recent dismissal of the Mayiandit County Commissioner, describing the move as a “flagrant violation” of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
The announcement of the dismissal aired on Friday evening via the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC), stating that Commissioner Marko Juong Magok had been relieved of his duties and replaced by John Matip Gatluok. In a formal letter addressed to the Unity State Governor, Dr. Akol criticized the decision, saying the replacement was carried out without consultation or approval from the NDM — the peace agreement–recognized entity responsible for nominating the commissioner.
“As you well know, the position of Commissioner of Mayiandit County was allocated to the National Democratic Movement as part of the power-sharing arrangements under R-ARCSS,” Dr. Akol stated. “Removing him without the knowledge and consent of the NDM is a flagrant violation of the agreement.”
Dr. Akol further rejected the government’s announcement identifying the newly appointed official as a member of the NDM, asserting that Gatluok is a known member of the SPLM-IG and previously served as a deputy governor under the dissolved 32 states structure.
“Such a ploy cannot deceive anyone,” the statement reads. According to Dr. Akol, there have been no prior complaints regarding Commissioner Magok’s performance, and he expressed frustration that attempts to discuss the matter with the Governor were abruptly cut short.
The NDM is now demanding the immediate reversal of the appointment and reinstatement of Commissioner Magok as a show of respect for the peace accord. “My demand is firm and simple: if you still believe in R-ARCSS, please arrange forthwith to revoke the relief of Commissioner Marko Juong Magok so that he resumes his work,” Dr. Akol concluded. Unity State authorities have not yet publicly responded to the letter or the allegations of violating the power-sharing provisions.
