South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit has appointed Ms. Arek Aldo Ajou Deng as Press Secretary in the Office of the President, according to Republican Decree No. 65/2026 dated February 23.

The appointment, effective immediately, was announced in an official statement from the Office of the President and signed on Kiir’s behalf by Africano Mande Gedima, Minister of Presidential Affairs.

Arek succeeds David Amuor Major, who was removed from the position on February 3, 2026.

The post had remained vacant for nearly three weeks.

Arek Aldo Ajou Deng is the Chief Executive Officer of the Luol Deng Foundation, a nonprofit organization established in 2005 by her brother, former NBA All-Star Luol Deng.

The foundation focuses on youth empowerment through sports, education, and community development initiatives across South Sudan.

She is also the sister of Luol Deng, who currently serves as President of the South Sudan Basketball Federation, and the daughter of Aldo Ajou Deng Akuey, a veteran South Sudanese politician and long-time public figure.

As Press Secretary, Arek will serve as the primary spokesperson for the President’s Office, responsible for communicating government policies, decisions, and official positions to the media and the public.

The appointment comes amid ongoing efforts by the government to strengthen communication structures and manage public messaging during a period of political transition, economic challenges, and preparations for delayed national elections scheduled for December 2026.

No immediate comment has been issued from Arek Aldo Ajou Deng or the Office of the President regarding her priorities or vision for the role.

The position of Press Secretary has seen frequent changes in recent years, reflecting broader reshuffles within the presidency and key government institutions.