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Kim Jong Un Ousts Vice Premier, Denounces 'Incompetence'

Published January 20, 2026, 06:23
Kim Jong Un Ousts Vice Premier, Denounces 'Incompetence'

Kim Jong Un has abruptly dismissed his country's Vice Premier, Yang Sung Ho, during a visit to an industrial complex. According to the KCNA, the decision stems from Yang's 'incompetence' in handling economic affairs. Kim strongly criticized government officials for being 'irresponsible, vulgar, and incapable,' which led to difficulties in the modernization program of the Ryongsong industrial center. He described the selection of incompetent officials as an 'unfortunate mistake,' comparing assigning them important tasks to trying to pull a cart with a goat. The North Korean leader expressed his determination to 'uproot the evil' within the government apparatus, reprimanding officials who are unable to manage the country's economic projects. In December, he had already warned about the need to eliminate 'incompetence' and 'evasion of responsibility.' This move comes during a period of intense preparations for the first Workers' Party Congress in five years, where the country's main directions and challenges are expected to be presented. The dismissal of the Vice Premier signals a new phase of stricter control and pressure on the North Korean government, aiming to achieve economic development and address internal challenges.