South Sudan President Salva Kiir Dismisses Long-Serving Intelligence Chief
South Sudan President Salva Kiir has dismissed intelligence chief Akol Koor Kuc, replacing him with ally Akec Tong Aleu. This decision follows a controversial extension of the transitional government’s term and election delays that have raised international concerns. Analysts suggest that this move is a strategic effort by Kiir to consolidate power in response to ongoing political struggles and criticism regarding the National Security Service’s operations.
In a significant development, South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has dismissed the long-serving chief of the country’s intelligence agency, Akol Koor Kuc, appointing a trusted ally, Akec Tong Aleu, as his successor. This transition was announced via a presidential decree reported by the state broadcaster SSBC. Koor, who has led the National Security Service (NSS) internal security bureau since South Sudan’s independence in 2011, was removed shortly after the transitional government postponed elections for the second time, extending the transitional period by an additional two years. This electoral delay has drawn criticism from international observers including the United States, who have expressed concern over the ongoing governance challenges and delays in the peace process. Human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have often highlighted the unchecked power of the NSS, which reportedly operates freely against civil society and activists who question governmental authority. Analysts believe that Koor’s dismissal is indicative of a broader power struggle within the ruling administration. Boboya James, a policy and security analyst, commented on the situation, stating that “The president doesn’t want very rapid decisions to cause a problem with national security,” suggesting that Kiir is keen to solidify his power base by introducing loyalists into critical positions following the extension of the peace agreement. The political landscape in South Sudan remains precarious, especially in light of the tensions between President Kiir and his deputy, Riek Machar, who played opposing roles during the five-year civil war that concluded in 2018. The recent changes in leadership within the NSS could signal a new phase in the country’s turbulent political journey.
Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has endured political instability, exacerbated by internal conflict and power struggles. The leadership of President Salva Kiir has witnessed significant challenges, including a civil war that erupted in 2013 and lasted until a peace agreement was reached in 2018. However, ongoing disputes with his deputy, Riek Machar, have hindered the implementation of the peace process, leading to repeated postponements of scheduled elections and government reforms. The National Security Service has garnered criticism for its heavy-handed tactics and lack of accountability, making the recent changes in leadership within this agency particularly noteworthy in the context of South Sudan’s ongoing governance challenges.
The dismissal of Akol Koor Kuc as head of South Sudan’s National Security Service and the appointment of Akec Tong Aleu represent a crucial shift in President Salva Kiir’s administration amid ongoing challenges with governance and power consolidation. As the transitional government faces mounting international criticism regarding its electoral delays and human rights practices, these changes may reflect both a response to internal pressures and a strategic move to reinforce loyalty within the government ranks. The future of South Sudan’s peace process and governmental stability remains uncertain, further complicated by the historical tensions between the president and his deputy.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
