South Sudan’s powerful national intelligence chief, Akol Koor, has been dismissed in a surprise move by President Salva Kiir, at a time of heightened political uncertainty in the country. Koor, who was on a visit to Dubai when the announcement was made late on Wednesday, had held the position for 13 years. No official reason has been given for his removal.
Akol Koor was widely regarded as the second most powerful figure in South Sudan, commanding a security force better equipped than the national army. His dismissal has sparked speculation, with analysts suggesting it may be linked to recent peace initiatives.
Daniel Akech, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, said that Koor may have opposed President Kiir’s efforts to engage rebel groups that refused to sign the 2018 peace agreement, which ended the country’s five-year civil war. The intelligence chief was believed to be against bringing these groups back into the political fold.
“This is a bold move, as it carries significant security risks,” Akech said, warning of potential instability in the already fragile political landscape. “Anything is possible in this volatile political environment.”
Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has struggled with widespread violence, severe flooding, and hunger. The 2018 peace deal, which brought together President Kiir and his former adversary Vice President Riek Machar, has yet to result in lasting stability.
Last month, Kiir’s office announced a two-year delay in the country’s long-awaited elections, which had been planned for December, further prolonging political uncertainty.