Breaking News: South Sudan President Salva Kiir Fires Long-Serving Intelligence Chief Amid Power Struggle
In a surprising move, President Salva Kiir of South Sudan has dismissed the country's intelligence chief, Akol Koor Kuc, and replaced him with a close ally, Akec Tong Aleu. This decision comes amidst a power struggle at the highest levels of the government, following the announcement of a two-year extension of the transitional period and the postponement of elections.
Since South Sudan's independence in 2011, Akol Koor Kuc had been heading the controversial internal security bureau of the National Security Service (NSS). Rights groups have long raised concerns about the excessive power wielded by the NSS, which has been accused of operating with impunity against civil society and activists critical of the government.
Analysts believe that President Kiir's move to replace the intelligence chief is aimed at consolidating power and bringing loyalists into the government. However, this decision has raised questions about the impact on national security and the peace process in the country.
South Sudan, which ended a five-year civil war in 2018, continues to face challenges in completing the peace process due to disagreements between President Kiir and his deputy Riek Machar. The appointment of a new intelligence chief could potentially impact the dynamics of the political landscape in the country.
Analysis:
- President Salva Kiir of South Sudan has made a significant decision by replacing the long-serving intelligence chief with a close ally, amid a power struggle within the government.
- The dismissal of Akol Koor Kuc raises concerns about the impact on national security and the peace process in the country.
- South Sudan, which recently extended its transitional period by two years and postponed elections, continues to face challenges in completing the peace process.
- The appointment of a new intelligence chief, Akec Tong Aleu, could potentially reshape the political landscape in South Sudan and influence ongoing power dynamics between key government figures.