South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has removed his long-serving spy chief, Gen Akol Koor Kuc, from his position as head of the National Security Services (NSS), a role he held since the country gained independence in 2011. The presidential decree announcing his dismissal was broadcast on national TV, although no reason was provided for the decision.
Gen Kuc has been reassigned as governor of Warrup State, the president’s home region, which has been plagued by insecurity and ethnic violence. While some view this move as a demotion, others believe it may serve to stabilize the region and possibly prepare him for a future political career. Analysts have speculated that this shift could signal an internal power struggle within Kiir’s circle, with some suggesting that Gen Kuc could be positioned as a future successor to the 73-year-old president.
The change at the NSS comes just weeks after the announcement that long-delayed elections, initially scheduled for December, have been postponed by two years. Warrup State has recently seen increased violence, with revenge attacks in Tonj North county resulting in at least 20 civilian deaths and 37 injuries, according to local authorities.
Gen Kuc’s successor as NSS chief is Gen Akec Tong Aleu, formerly part of the defense ministry. Under Gen Kuc’s leadership, the NSS faced criticism from human rights groups for its crackdowns on opposition voices, journalists, and activists. Despite these allegations, the NSS has consistently denied any abuses.
South Sudan, which seceded from Sudan in 2011, has faced prolonged internal conflict, particularly after a fallout between President Kiir and his deputy Riek Machar. Though a 2018 peace agreement sought to end the civil war, violence and political tensions remain high in the country.