South Sudan's President Salva Kiir Dismisses Central Bank Governor Amid Economic Crisis

South Sudan's President Salva Kiir has dismissed Central Bank Governor Johnny Ohisa and reappointed former governor Addis Ababa Othow in the latest government reshuffle. The move comes as the country struggles with declining oil revenues, high inflation, currency depreciation and cash shortages. Analysts say broader economic reforms and political stability will be crucial to restoring confidence in South Sudan's economy.

South Sudan's President Salva Kiir has dismissed Central Bank Governor Johnny Ohisa in the latest shake-up within the country's top leadership, as the government grapples with worsening economic difficulties and ongoing political uncertainty.
The decision was announced in a presidential decree broadcast on state television late on Wednesday.
Kiir did not provide any reason for the dismissal.
Ohisa has been replaced by Addis Ababa Othow, who previously served as governor of the Bank of South Sudan between June and November last year.

LATEST IN A SERIES OF GOVERNMENT RESHUFFLES

The dismissal is part of a broader pattern of changes within President Kiir's administration.
In recent months, the South Sudanese leader has carried out several cabinet reshuffles and replaced senior government and security officials as he seeks to consolidate his administration ahead of the country's delayed political transition.
Ohisa himself had only been reappointed earlier this year after previously serving two separate terms as central bank governor.

ECONOMY UNDER MOUNTING PRESSURE

South Sudan continues to face severe economic challenges driven by declining oil production, falling government revenues and persistent fiscal pressures.
The country remains heavily dependent on crude oil exports, which account for the overwhelming majority of government income.
However, disruptions to oil exports through neighbouring Sudan, combined with lower production levels and regional instability, have significantly reduced national revenue.
The economic slowdown has contributed to high inflation, a weakening South Sudanese pound, rising food prices and recurring shortages of foreign currency.
Businesses and households have also struggled with limited access to cash as liquidity problems persist across the banking sector.

POLITICAL TRANSITION FACES UNCERTAINTY

The latest leadership change comes as South Sudan continues implementing the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement intended to end years of civil conflict.
National elections, originally expected in recent years, have been postponed several times, with the government citing security concerns, funding shortages and delays in implementing key provisions of the peace deal.
International partners, including the United Nations and the African Union, have repeatedly urged South Sudanese leaders to accelerate political reforms and stabilise the country's economy.

CHALLENGES REMAIN

Analysts say restoring confidence in South Sudan's financial system will require broader economic reforms alongside efforts to diversify government revenue beyond oil.
While changes in leadership at the central bank may influence monetary policy, economists argue that long-term recovery will depend on improving public finances, strengthening institutions and maintaining political stability.
The appointment of Addis Ababa Othow places renewed responsibility on the country's monetary authorities as South Sudan attempts to address one of the most difficult economic periods since gaining independence in 2011.