Born in 1951 in Bahr el Ghazal, Salva Kiir Mayardit has served as the inaugural President of South Sudan since the nation gained independence on 9 July 2011. A long-term military leader, he ascended to power following the death of John Garang and spent decades navigating the transition from rebel commander to the head of a sovereign state.
Military background
Kiir began his military career in 1967 by joining the Anyanya rebels during the First Sudanese Civil War. Following the 1972 Addis Ababa Agreement, he integrated into the Sudanese Armed Forces as a low-ranking officer. In 1983, he joined the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA), the military wing of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM), under the leadership of John Garang. By 1997, he commanded troops during Operation Thunderbolt and eventually assumed leadership of the SPLA.
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Take the IQ test →Transitions to national leadership
Following the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement, Kiir held key roles, including First Vice President of Sudan and President of the Southern Autonomous region. After winning re-election in 2010 with 93% of the vote, he oversaw the 2011 independence referendum, which resulted in 98.83% support for secession. Upon independence, he transitioned from a regional leader to the first president of the newly formed South Sudan.
Presidential policy and government
During his presidency, Kiir managed various ministerial roles, including serving as Minister of Higher Education in 2011, 2017, and 2018, as well as Minister of Cabinet Affairs between 2018 and 2019 and Minister of Health in 2015. His administration faced challenges including the Heglig Crisis and internal government instability. In 2013, he moved to reduce cabinet size, dismissing officials including Vice President Riek Machar.
Fast facts
- Born: 1951
- Birthplace: Bahr el Ghazal, South Sudan
- Military rank: General
- Religion: Catholicism
- President of South Sudan: 2011-present
- First Vice President of Sudan: 2005-2011
Questions readers ask
What military organization did Salva Kiir lead?
He led the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA) following the death of John Garang in 2005.
What government positions has he held besides President?
He served as the Vice President of Sudan, Minister of Higher Education, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, and Minister of Health.
Achievements
- Worked as politician, military personnel and minister
