By Gladys Fred Kole
President Salva Kiir has directed the new national minister of youth and sports to foster unity among the youth fraternity across the nation.
He made these remarks yesterday as he officiated the swearing-in of Dr. Joseph Geng Akec, who was appointed last Friday to the youth docket, replacing the axed Albino Bol.
After being sworn in, Minister Geng said he would do his best to bring the youth together in a bid to lay a strong foundation for nation-building.
Last week, President Kiir removed Dr. Albino Bol Dhieu as youth minister, amid a standoff with the national youth union.
Kiir then appointed Dr. Joseph Geng Akech as the new Youth and Sports Minister, replacing Bol.
Youth Ministry Reshuffle
Just days after a controversial squabble ensued between the latter and youth leader Gola Boyoi over a plan to hold a youth convention, President Salva Kiir issued a decree relieving Dr. Albino from duty.
To many, Kiir’s move is seen as a charm to cement trust and bolster relationships with youth, who constitute 75 percent of the total population, as per statistics.
Bol, the ex-minister of youth and sports, wholeheartedly welcomed the decision by President Salva Kiir to relieve him and called on South Sudan youth to rally behind the new minister.
“I call upon all the youth to rally behind your leadership and support our newly appointed Minister of Youth and Sports, Cde. Dr. Joseph Geng Akech and work together for the peace and betterment of our beloved country, South Sudan,” he said.
In the same event yesterday, the president also officiated the swearing-in of the leaders of political councils’ parties.
Kiir also directed the new members of the Political Parties Council to work in tandem to shape the political landscape of the country as it heads towards a democratic process.
The Chairperson of the Political Parties Council, Engineer James Akol Zachayo, said the Council will work around the clock to foster a vibrant political landscape in South Sudan, according to a statement from the presidency.
The oath-taking ceremony was administered by the Deputy Chief Justice, Dr. John Gatwech Lul.