SOUTH SUDAN President Salva Kiir replaced his deputy and opposition leader Riek Machar yesterday in response to the latter’s flight into hiding amid renewed clashes with government forces.

The president’s decision to install Taban Deng Gai, who was mining minister in a coalition government formed in April, threatens an already fragile peace deal because most opposition generals and militia remain loyal to Mr Machar.

A faction of the armed opposition selected Mr Taban to replace Mr Machar on Saturday, insisting that the coalition government could not function with the vice-president in hiding.