Gunfight at Ex-Spying Chief’s Residence Sparks Unrest in South Sudan

Confusion erupted in Juba, South Sudan, when former spy chief General Akol Koor Kuc’s residence was the site of a deadly gunfight, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers and two civilians. The incident, attributed to a “serious misunderstanding” among troops, has prompted an investigation amidst existing concerns over the nation’s instability despite a peace agreement. General Kuc has faced tumultuous political shifts following his dismissal from the security services and subsequent restrictions on his movements.

Confusion and concern have arisen in South Sudan following a violent incident involving former spy chief General Akol Koor Kuc’s residence. The firefight erupted on Thursday night, lasting over 50 minutes, prompting residents of Juba to close their businesses and seek shelter. Following General Kuc’s dismissal from his position as head of the National Security Services (NSS) last month and his subsequent house arrest, the tensions culminated in tragic circumstances.

During the altercation, two soldiers and two civilians, including a student and a lawyer, lost their lives in what has been described as a “serious misunderstanding” among troops stationed at General Kuc’s home. An army representative stated that General Kuc was unharmed in the incident. The confusion surrounding the gunfire remains unexplained, with authorities yet to clarify the trigger for the misunderstanding.

Despite the peace agreement established in 2018 aimed at resolving the prolonged civil conflict, South Sudan continues to grapple with insecurity, particularly in urban areas. Major-General Lul Ruai Koang of the South Sudanese army confirmed that an inquiry into the violence is underway.

He explained the security measures in place prior to the incident, elucidating that following restrictions on General Kuc’s movements, additional troops were deployed. The misunderstanding ostensibly occurred between the forces outside and inside the compound, which led to the exchange of gunfire. Following the outbreak, General Santino Deng, the head of the defense forces, intervened to restore order.

Subsequent to the gunfight, General Kuc was moved from his residence in Thongping to a second home in the suburb of Jebel. His dismissal by President Salva Kiir was met with speculation regarding potential internal political strife, as many analysts believe General Kuc was a key contender for leadership in the future. Despite being offered the governorship of Warrap state after his removal from the spy position, this role was revoked shortly thereafter, intensifying questions regarding the reasons behind his dismissal and the implications for South Sudan’s political landscape.

The situation involving General Akol Koor Kuc reflects the ongoing complexities within South Sudan’s political realm. Since achieving independence in 2011, the nation has experienced prolonged internal conflict marked by struggles for power and ethnic divisions. The peace agreement in 2018 sought to stabilize the country, yet incidents like the recent gunfight highlight the fragile state of security. General Kuc, once a central figure within President Salva Kiir’s administration, has seen a dramatic fall from grace, stirring suspicions about rival factions impacted by his controversial ousting.

The violent incident at General Akol Koor Kuc’s residence underscores lingering tensions in South Sudan’s political dynamics. Despite a peace agreement aimed at quelling violence, instability persists, as illustrated by the tragic loss of life resulting from military miscommunication. As investigations unfold and General Kuc’s fate remains uncertain, the event serves as a stark reminder of South Sudan’s ongoing challenges in governance and security.

Original Source: www.bbc.com