Heavy Gunfire Erupts in Juba Amid Political Turmoil in South Sudan

Heavy gunfire occurred in Juba, South Sudan, as security forces attempted to arrest former NSS head Akol Koor Kuc. The unrest follows Koor’s recent dismissal by President Salva Kiir and highlights ongoing political tensions in the country, previously marked by a civil war. Koor remained at home throughout the incident, according to army officials.

Heavy gunfire erupted in the capital of South Sudan, Juba, on Thursday evening following attempts by security forces to detain Akol Koor Kuc, the former head of the National Security Service (NSS). The shooting commenced around 7 p.m. local time and persisted sporadically for over an hour, according to Reuters report. A safety alert issued by the United Nations advised staff members in Juba to remain sheltered indoors amid the unrest.

President Salva Kiir had recently dismissed Akol Koor, who led the NSS since South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011. His dismissal and the subsequent disturbance in Juba have been interpreted by analysts as indicative of a power struggle within the upper echelons of the government. Major General Lul Ruai Koang, an army spokesperson, stated that Koor had not been arrested and remained in his residence during the gunfire. He is expected to provide further comments to the press following a meeting with security officials.

This recent turmoil comes on the heels of a postponement of elections, which have now been delayed for a second time. Historical tensions remain in South Sudan, stemming from the civil war that raged from 2013 to 2018 between factions loyal to President Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar. Although there has been relative peace since 2018, sporadic clashes continue among rival factions and various armed groups throughout the country.

The political landscape in South Sudan has been characterized by instability and power struggles since the country gained independence in 2011. President Salva Kiir’s dismissal of Akol Koor Kuc and the ensuing gunfire in Juba highlight ongoing tensions within the government. Koor’s leadership of the NSS was significant, and his sudden removal has reignited fears of unrest. The historical context of the civil war between Kiir and Machar also frames the current tensions, which remain rooted in their ongoing rivalry and the challenges facing the transitional government.

The eruption of gunfire in Juba following the dismissal of former NSS head Akol Koor Kuc underscores the fragile political environment in South Sudan. Analysts perceive the incident as a reflection of ongoing power struggles within the government. As the country navigates delays in elections and the remnants of civil conflict, the need for stability and unity remains critical to its future.

Original Source: www.usnews.com