Trade Ministry Moves to End Leadership Crisis in Business Chamber

(JUBA) – The Ministry of Trade and Industry – Republic of South Sudan has nullified a disputed leadership election within the South Sudan Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture and confirmed the current leadership, citing violations of the organisation’s constitution and national laws.

In a press statement and ministerial order issued on February 13, 2026, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Atong Kuol Manyang Juuk, said the elections held on February 2, 2026, were unlawful and conducted without proper authorisation.

The ministry declared the self announced leadership led by Bona Bol Bol Areech as null and void. The order said the process did not follow the constitution of the Chamber and lacked approval from the recognised leadership.

The minister confirmed that the current leadership, chaired by Losidik Ladu Lukak, remains the only legitimate authority to manage the affairs of the Chamber.

According to the statement, the confirmed leadership is mandated to continue running the institution until a properly organised general election is held.

The ministry directed the leadership to prepare and conduct new elections no later than October 21, 2027. The process must follow earlier resolutions endorsed by the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs and comply with the Chamber’s constitution and national laws.

The order was issued following consultative meetings held on February 6, 2026, involving relevant stakeholders and authorities to resolve the leadership dispute.

The minister said the decision was taken under Presidential Decree No. 105/2025 and Article 114 of the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan.

All members of the Chamber were instructed to cooperate with the confirmed leadership and avoid actions that could affect unity, stability, and lawful operations within the private sector.

The ministry warned that continued disputes could disrupt business activities and undermine confidence in South Sudan’s commercial institutions at a time when the country is seeking to strengthen economic recovery and private sector growth.

Copies of the order were sent to the Minister of Presidential Affairs, the Director General of the National Security Service, the undersecretary of the ministry, state chambers of commerce, and media houses.

The order took effect immediately upon signature on February 13, 2026.

A press release from the National Trade and Industry Ministry said the decision aims to restore constitutional order within the Chamber and promote stability in South Sudan’s business environment.