South Sudan’s President Dismisses Intelligence Chief Amid Political Turmoil
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has dismissed intelligence chief Akol Koor Kuc, a move indicating internal power shifts amid ongoing governmental challenges. The decision follows the postponement of elections and an extension of the transitional government period, drawing criticism from the international community. Kiir has appointed Akec Tong Aleu as the new intelligence chief, a close ally, aiming to solidify support within his administration as the country grapples with its peace process and security concerns.
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has officially dismissed Akol Koor Kuc, the long-serving intelligence chief of the National Security Service (NSS), a decision reported by the state broadcaster SSBC following a presidential decree. Akol Koor Kuc has led the controversial internal security bureau since the nation gained independence from Sudan in 2011. His removal came only weeks after the transitional government announced yet another postponement of elections, further extending the transitional period by two years and drawing international criticism, notably from the United States and other parties involved in the country’s peace process. The government spokesperson and the president’s office did not respond to attempts to obtain further comment via Reuters. Human rights organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have repeatedly expressed concerns regarding the NSS, emphasizing its excessive power and impunity against civil society and dissenting activists. Analysts suggest that this move to dismiss the intelligence chief reflects ongoing power dynamics within the upper echelons of the government. “There has been a lot of reckoning in terms of what to do with Akol Koor. The president does not want very rapid decisions to cause a problem with national security,” remarked policy and security analyst Boboya James. He further noted that the president seeks to consolidate his power by appointing loyalists to key government positions, particularly following the recent extension of the peace agreement. The newly appointed intelligence chief, Akec Tong Aleu, is recognized as a close ally of President Kiir. Following a prolonged civil war that concluded in 2018, disagreements between Kiir and his deputy, Riek Machar, who were leaders of opposing factions during the conflict, continue to hinder the peace process within the nation.
The dismissal of Akol Koor Kuc marks a significant shift in South Sudan’s political landscape, particularly in the context of its turbulent journey since gaining independence. Since 2011, Kuc’s tenure has been characterized by controversy, primarily due to the extensive powers wielded by the National Security Service and its contentious interactions with civil society. The backdrop of this political maneuvering is compounded by the instability that has plagued South Sudan, including a prolonged civil war that officially ended in 2018, yet ongoing disputes between President Salva Kiir and his deputy Riek Machar have obstructed the advancement of a cohesive peace agreement. The recent extension of the transitional period and the delay in elections further underscore the pressing need for governance changes. The appointment of Akec Tong Aleu as the new intelligence chief indicates a potential realignment of power within the government as President Kiir attempts to fortify his administration with loyal supporters amidst rising domestic and international scrutiny.
The recent dismissal of long-serving intelligence chief Akol Koor Kuc by South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir highlights ongoing power struggles within the government and reflects the complexities of navigating national security with political loyalty. The appointment of a closely aligned ally as his successor suggests a strategic move to consolidate power amid persistent international pressure and internal challenges regarding governance and human rights. The developments signal crucial implications for the peace process and stability within South Sudan as it continues striving for a coherent path forward following years of conflict.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
