National Bureau of Standards Head Suspended for Undermining Trade Minister

(Juba) – South Sudan’s Minister of Trade and Industry, Atong Kuol Manyang, has issued a formal order suspending Gloria Nyoka Joseph, the Executive Director of the South Sudan National Bureau of Standards (SSNBS), over allegations of mismanagement, unprocedural conduct, divisive politics, and insubordination.

The decision was made through Ministerial Order No. 12/2025, signed on June 13, 2025. The order takes immediate effect and invokes powers granted under Presidential Decree No. 105/2025 and Article 114 of South Sudan’s Transitional Constitution (2011, as amended).

According to the ministerial statement, Joseph’s suspension is intended to allow for a full investigation into the allegations raised against her leadership at the bureau. These include reported misuse of resources, actions taken without proper procedure, political behavior seen as divisive within the institution, and conduct considered to have undermined the authority of the Minister of Trade and Industry.

The suspension is not a final disciplinary measure but a temporary step to facilitate a transparent review process. During the investigation, Aldo Upiou Juady, the Senior Director General at the Ministry, will assume Joseph’s duties in an acting capacity.

The Ministry has directed all relevant security agencies to ensure full enforcement of the order, underscoring the government’s position on institutional accountability and proper governance within public offices.

This suspension comes at a time when South Sudan is attempting to strengthen the credibility and functionality of key state institutions amid broader reforms in public administration.

The National Bureau of Standards plays a critical role in setting and enforcing quality standards across industries and trade, making its leadership position central to national and regional commerce.

Minister Atong Kuol Manyang’s decision was communicated officially to the Vice President and Chairperson of the Economic Cluster, the Minister in the Office of the President, and the Minister of Public Service and Human Resource Development, among other senior officials.

The Ministry has not yet released details on the timeline or composition of the investigative body, nor has it provided information on the possible legal or administrative outcomes if the allegations are confirmed.

Photo: The Mail