Rebel leader Gen. Paul Malong Awan has accused the South Sudan government of bribing legislators with USD 3.5 million to pass controversial amendments to the National Security Service Act. The amendments allow the agency to arrest and detain individuals without a warrant.
Speaking at a press conference in Nairobi, Gen. Malong, a former head of the National Intelligence Security and Intelligence Services, criticized the government’s tactics and claimed that the Director General of NSS’ ISB intimidated legislators during the vote. He questioned where the government found the funds for the bribery, considering the country’s financial struggles.
Gen. Malong, who is involved in peace talks with the government, vowed not to sign any agreement until the National Security Service Act is repealed as agreed. He emphasized his sources within the government who provide him with information, stating that it is not difficult for him to gather evidence to support his claims.
Once a close ally of President Salva Kiir, Gen. Malong now leads a rebel group that has clashed with the SSPDF in ongoing conflicts. His allegations shed light on the murky world of politics and security in South Sudan.