In-tray of activities, expectations, as new spy chief takes charge

President Kiir, in his address during the swearing-in ceremony, expressed his full confidence in Aleu, directing him to tackle the complex national security challenges facing the country

By Emmanuel Mandella

President Salva Kiir officially on Thursday witnessed the swearing in of Gen. Akec Tong Aleu as the new Director General of the Internal Security Bureau (ISB) of the National Security Service (NSS). Aleu, a former governor and key player in national security, takes over from General Akol Koor Kuc, who was appointed as the Governor of Warrap State, a significant switch made through a presidential decree on Wednesday evening.

The swearing in ceremony, done in the presence of the President, flanked by key figures in SPLM and government, including Gen. Chol Thon Balok, the Minister of Defense and Veteran Affairs and Nhial Deng Nhial, among others, ostensibly signifying a strong vote of confidence.

President Kiir, in his address during the swearing-in ceremony, expressed his full confidence in Aleu, directing him to tackle the complex national security challenges facing the country.

“Your role in safeguarding the integrity of South Sudan is crucial. I urge you to show unwavering commitment and ensure our internal security is strengthened for the benefit of all citizens” Kiir emphasized.

Aleu’s appointment comes at a time of heightened security concerns, with ongoing efforts to combat intercommunal violence and political instability in some regions of the country. His leadership in the ISB is expected to play a pivotal role in addressing these issues, as well as any eminent threat to national security.

Aleu replaces General Akol Koor Kuc, who has been reassigned to the governorship of Warrap State, a region known for its volatile political environment and history of communal violence.

Aleu is not new to administration and governance. He has changed various leadership hats, beginning his public service as Commissioner of Tonj South County, in 2012, and later, as Deputy Governor of Warrap State, from 2012 to 2015.

He temporarily served as governor of Warrap state, from August to December 2015, whereupon he assumed the position as first governor of the now defunct Tonj state.

In 2018, he served as Minister of Cabinet Affairs in Warrap State and an Undersecretary. The head of state would, on Wednesday evening, give him yet another star, by making him the Director General of the Internal Service Bureau (ISB), a crucial and lifeline position.

During his tenure as governor, Aleu faced considerable challenges in managing tensions. His new appointment as Director General of the ISB places him in charge of internal security operations at a national level, positioning him to shape security policies and strategies for the country.

Aleu’s past roles, including serving as Undersecretary in the Ministry of Defence, have made him a well-known figure within South Sudan’s security apparatus. His influence and leadership are expected to play a significant role in stabilizing the country’s internal security framework amidst political and economic difficulties.

Aleu’s past roles, including serving as Undersecretary in the Ministry of Defence, have made him a well-known figure within South Sudan’s security apparatus. His influence and leadership are expected to play a significant role in stabilizing the country’s internal security framework amidst political and economic difficulties.

“While we acknowledge the need for strong security leadership. It is worrying that the same individuals circulate between political and security roles, which may limit accountability,” he said.

However, some citizens on social media also voiced their reactions, with some lauding Aleu’s leadership and experience. “We hope Aleu’s appointment brings real, tangible change,” stated a user. “This reshuffle is just a political game. We need reforms, not the same faces in different positions,” said another.

However, some citizens on social media also voiced their reactions, with some lauding Aleu’s leadership and experience. “We hope Aleu’s appointment brings real, tangible change,” stated a user. “This reshuffle is just a political game. We need reforms, not the same faces in different positions,” said another.