South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir made a significant move by dismissing the long-serving Director General of the Internal Security Bureau of the National Security Service (NSS) Lt Gen Akol Koor Kuc and appointing Akec Tong Aleu as his replacement. Aleu, previously the Undersecretary for Veteran Affairs, now takes on this crucial role in the security sector. This change, which saw Aleu promoted to the rank of Lt. Gen., marks the end of Kuc’s 13-year tenure at the NSS.
The dismissal has sparked discussions among pundits about power struggles within the top security officials of South Sudan. The move could potentially bring about reforms in the security sector, which has been stagnant amidst an economic crisis. President Kiir also redeployed Gen Kuol Muor to the NSS, with Kuc being appointed as the Governor of Warrap State.
Gen Akol Koor’s leadership of the NSS has been marred by allegations of human rights abuses, leading to widespread fear of the agency. The NSS has been accused of interfering with civil society and the media, as well as conducting illegal detentions and torture. President Kiir’s recent decisions signal a potential shift in the country’s security landscape, with hopes for positive changes ahead.