South Sudan President Salva Kiir has dismissed Yeni Samuel Costa from his role as central bank governor and reappointed Johnny Ohisa Damian, marking the latter’s third tenure in the position since 2022. The announcement, made through a presidential decree aired on state television on Friday evening, did not provide specific reasons for Costa’s dismissal.
Costa, who had only been in office since November 12, 2025, served just over two months, making his tenure the shortest for any central bank governor since South Sudan’s independence in 2011. His brief time in office coincided with growing economic concerns, including severe currency depreciation and persistently high inflation, which have strained the nation’s economy.
Johnny Ohisa Damian Returns to Lead the Central Bank
Johnny Ohisa Damian, hailing from Eastern Equatoria State, returns to the position of governor after being removed just seven months ago. A seasoned economist and banker, Ohisa brings a wealth of experience in public financial management. Prior to his initial appointment in 2022, he held senior roles at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, contributing to fiscal policy, revenue administration, and international financial relations.
The Bank of South Sudan plays a crucial role in shaping the country’s monetary policy, supervising the banking sector, and ensuring financial stability, particularly during these challenging economic times. With the reappointment of Ohisa, many hope for stability and strategic leadership to guide the bank through ongoing financial pressures.
