Congratulations Hon. Dr. Marial Dongrin Ater on your Appointment as Minister for Finance and Economic Planning in South Sudan
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Dr Marial Dongrin Ater, Minister for Finance and Economic Planning
Dr. Marial Dongrin Ater’s Commitment to Uphold Integrity, Clear Arrears and Boost Non-Oil Revenues – A Bright Future Ahead
By Marial Mangar Akol, Juba, South Sudan
Friday, 12 July 2024 (PW) — Hon. Dr. Marial Dongrin Ater, congratulations on your appointment as Minister of Finance and Planning. This milestone marks a crucial chapter in your political journey, and I extend my heartfelt wishes as you assume this role.
Your position carries immense responsibility and trust, bestowed by H.E. President Salva Kiir. As you step into this role, I am confident you bring the vision, integrity, and determination needed to guide our economy towards brighter horizons. While current affairs have brought our country to its knees, I believe your leadership will usher in a new era of resilience and prosperity.
President Kiir has tasked you with implementing measures to consolidate the collection of non-oil revenues, a critical step towards economic stability. The President’s concern over employees going without salaries for nine months underscores the urgency of your mission. His assertion that non-oil revenues are sufficient to cover government expenses, including salaries, highlights the potential for immediate positive change under your leadership.
Remember, this appointment tests your integrity, reputation, and commitment to public service and stewardship of our nation’s resources. A pressing issue is the influence of cartels threatening our economic integrity. The task before you is undeniably daunting, but the President’s directive to establish a single account for all revenues and crack down on corrupt practices provides a clear roadmap for action.
The path to economic recovery is challenging, and expectations may seem overwhelming. I commend your willingness to face this challenge, knowing no quick fix exists to reverse our economic hardships. Your commitment to collaborate with the larger economic sector to determine realistic and viable actions addressing pressing economic issues is commendable.
Past officeholders have explored various economic theories and strategies for sustainable recovery, yet desired outcomes remain elusive. However, we must not lose hope. In these trying times, true leadership shines brightest, and innovative solutions can emerge.
SOUTH SUDAN: Ministers for Finance and Economic Planning, 22 October 2005 to 10 July 2024.
1. Hon. Arthur Akuien Chol – Bahr El Ghazal
22/10/2005 – 28/03/2007
2. Hon. Gabriel Changson Chang – Upper Nile
28/03/2007 – 02/07/2007
3. Hon. Koul Athian Mawien – Bahr El Ghazal
02/07/2007 – 31/03/2009
4. Hon. David Deng Athorbei – Bahr El Ghazal
31/05/2009 – 26/08/2011
5. Hon. Kosti Manibe Ngai – Equatoria
26/08/2011 – 23/07/2013
6. Hon. Aggrey Tisa Sabuni – Equatoria
31/07/2013 – 12/01/2015
7. Hon. David Deng Athorbei – Bahr El Ghazal
12/01/2015 – 28/04/2016
8. Hon. Stephen Dhieu Dau – Upper Nile
28/04/2016 – 12/03/2018
9. Hon. Salvatore Garang Mabiordit – Bar Gazal
12/03/2018 – 12/03/2020
10. Hon. Salvatore Garang Mabiordit -Bar gazal
12/03/2020 – 16/09/2020
11. Hon. Athian Ding Athian – Bahr El Ghazal
16/09/2020 – 12/11/2021
12. Hon. Agak Achuil Lual – Bahr El Ghazal
12/11/2021 – 04/08/2022
13. Hon. Dier Tong Ngor – Bahr El Ghazal
04/08/2022 – 03/08/2023
14: Hon. Dr. Bak Barnabas Chol – Bahr Ghazal
03/08/2023 – 15/03/2024
15. Hon. Eng. Awou Daniel Chuang – Upper Nile
15/03/2024 – 10/07/2024
16. Hon. Dr. Marial Dongrin Ater – Bahr Ghazal
10/7/2024 – Present
SCORES:
1. Bahr Ghazal Region: 11
2. Upper Nile Region: 3
3. Equatoria Region: 2
Total 16
NILEPET: Managing Directors of Nile Petroleum (NilePet) Corporation since formation to date.
1. Dr. Bullen Ajith Bol—Upper Nile
2. Mangok Khalil Mangok—Bhar El Gazalle
3. Eng. Adong Bith Deng—Upper Nile
4. Joseph Cleto Kuel—Bhar El Gazalle
5. Machar Achiek Ader, Bhar El Gazalle
6. Thelweng Mathiang Rok—Bhar El Gazalle
7. Dr. Chol Deng Thon Abel—Upper Nile
8. Eng. Bol Ring Muorwel—Bhar El Gazalle
9. Dr. Chol Deng Thon Abel—Upper Nile
10. Eng. Bernard Amuor—Bhar El Gazalle
11- Mohamed Lino Benjamin—Bhar El Gazalle
SCORES.
Bhar El Gazalle Region: 7
Upper Nile Region: 4
Equatoria Region: 0
Total 11
I urge you to prioritize civil servants and organized forces who have endured months without salaries. Their dedication deserves fair and timely compensation. Addressing their needs upholds morale and strengthens our nation’s foundation. The President’s emphasis on transparency and accountability in revenue collection aligns perfectly with this goal.
Mr. Dongrin, amid your responsibilities, remain authentic. This trait resonates with those you serve. Don’t feel compelled to change to fit others’ perceptions of “good” or “bad.” Let your actions speak, guided by your values and dedication to our nation’s welfare.
Remember, challenges pave the path to progress, but each challenge offers an opportunity for growth and transformation. Embrace this chance to lead with honesty, diligence, and unwavering commitment to our nation and its citizens.
In conclusion, approach this appointment with humility, courage, and relentless dedication to public interest. Your expertise, determination, and commitment to our nation’s well-being promise a bright future. The President’s trust in you to address these critical economic issues further underscores the importance of your role.
May your tenure as Minister of Finance and Planning be marked by achievements benefiting our country and people, leaving a lasting legacy of financial prudence, progress, and improved non-oil revenue collection.
Wishing you the very best as you embark on this crucial mission to revitalize our nation’s economy.
The author, Marial Mangar Akol, is a concerned citizen who can be reached at mmangar55@gmail.com.
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