In a surprising move, President Salva Kiir has revoked the appointment of General Akol Koor Kuch as the Governor of Warrap State, replacing him with Hon. Marial Abuk.
The decision comes just hours after Gen. Akol’s return from Dubai, where he was swiftly escorted by security personnel upon his arrival at Juba International Airport, preventing him from interacting with a large crowd that had gathered to welcome him.
The Warrap community had assembled at the airport, eagerly awaiting to greet their newly appointed governor. However, they were left in shock and disappointment as Gen. Akol, surrounded by security forces, was quickly led away, offering no chance to meet or speak with his supporters.
The atmosphere reportedly became tense, with many left confused by the abrupt change of events.
Local sources suggest that the sudden removal of Gen. Akol was unexpected, even among members of his cabinet, who were present at the airport. One witness, Mary Samuel, a prominent women’s leader in the Warrap community, shared her experience:
“We were here to celebrate the Governor’s appointment, but the situation took an unsettling turn. I was even asked by others to remove a T-shirt with Gen. Akol’s picture and wear different clothes, which indicated something was wrong.”
The unexpected nature of the revocation has fueled speculation across social media, with many South Sudanese sharing mixed reactions. Some fear that the decision could create instability, while others welcome it, seeing it as a sign of political change in the country.
Gen. Akol Koor had served as the Director General of South Sudan’s Internal Security Bureau for 13 years before he was appointed Governor of Warrap State.Â
His long tenure had been marred by controversies, including allegations of human rights abuses, which led to sanctions by the UN and the U.S. government in 2016.
Gen. Akol had also been rumored to harbor ambitions of taking over power from President Kiir, a claim he has repeatedly denied.
The timing of the decision is notable, as just a day before, Gen. Akec Tong Aleu was sworn in as the new Director General of the Internal Security Bureau, replacing Gen. Akol in that role.
President Kiir expressed his full support for Aleu, urging him to approach his new responsibilities with determination.
While no official reason for Gen. Akol’s removal as governor has been given, his swift departure from the airport and the sudden change of leadership in Warrap State are being closely watched as the country speculates on the broader implications of the president’s decision.
