South Sudanese President Salva Kiir has dismissed Finance Minister Marial Dongrin Ater in a cabinet reshuffle, replacing him with Athian Ding Athian, who previously held the role from 2020 to 2021. Reuters reports that this marks the seventh finance ministerial change since 2020, underscoring persistent turbulence in the country’s economic management.
The shakeup comes amid severe fiscal pressures. Projections from the International Monetary Fund point to a 4.3% economic contraction in 2025, with inflation expected to surge to 65.7%, fueled by declining oil revenues and disruptions from Sudan’s ongoing conflict.
Analysts observe that frequent changes at the helm of the finance ministry complicate South Sudan’s engagement with international lenders and donors, while raising concerns among investors over policy continuity. The lack of clarity on reform direction has heightened uncertainty across both public finances and the private sector.
The latest appointment highlights the government’s struggle to stabilize its fiscal framework, as rising prices and shrinking revenues weigh heavily on households and businesses. Market watchers suggest that restoring investor confidence will require stronger policy consistency alongside urgent measures to cushion the economy.
