The South Sudanese army reassured citizens and foreign nationals of their safety following gunfire in Juba that lasted over an hour. The altercation, originating near the former intelligence chief’s residence, involved two military factions. While the situation has since calmed, investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the conflict.
The South Sudanese army has assured the safety of its citizens and foreign diplomats following a series of gunfire incidents in Juba on Thursday evening. The exchange of fire, which persisted for over an hour at approximately 7 p.m., occurred near the Nimule Resort Hotel, adjacent to the residence of former intelligence chief, General Akol Koor Kuc. In a communication with Radio Tamazuj, a spokesperson for the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) confirmed that order has been restored in the city after military clashes involving two factions at General Kuc’s residence. The spokesperson reiterated that investigations into the underlying causes of the incident are underway, and the general atmosphere has calmed down.
Furthermore, Major General Lul elaborated that it is still undetermined what ignited the conflict, although there are indications that it may relate to a recent directive issued to General Kuc. In the preceding week, General Kuc was reportedly instructed to remain at home, leading to an increase in the security presence around his property to manage potential risks. Following his dismissal, General Kuc’s security detail was significantly reduced, resulting in a dual-layer security setup aimed at ensuring his safety. The military is currently probing the reasons for discord among the disparate security forces.
General Koor Kuc, who had led the National Security Service (NSS) since South Sudan’s independence in 2011, faced abrupt dismissal by President Salva Kiir earlier this month, suggesting a fierce struggle for power within the top echelons of the transitional government. Koor’s removal further emphasizes the consolidation of power by President Kiir, particularly in light of the recent postponement of national elections initially scheduled for December. Analysts characterize this political climate as fraught with instability, asserting that these changes indicate a growing concentration of control within the government as it navigates through sensitive transitional dynamics.
Following a violent altercation involving military factions in Juba, the South Sudanese army took steps to reassure both local citizens and international diplomats regarding their security. The incident’s proximity to the residence of a significant political figure underscores the precarious nature of current governance in South Sudan, where power struggles often manifest violently. Recent political maneuvers, including the dismissal of General Koor Kuc, reflect ongoing tensions at the highest levels of the South Sudanese government, further complicated by the postponement of national elections.
In summary, the South Sudanese army’s efforts to maintain order following gunfire incidents in Juba reveal a commitment to citizen and foreign safety amidst political upheaval. The clashes occurring at General Akol Koor Kuc’s residence illustrate underlying tensions due to leadership changes, as the transitional government strives to stabilize a precarious situation marked by power struggles and delayed elections. Continued investigations into the incidents indicate the government’s proactive approach in addressing potential threats to security.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
