By Deng Ghai Deng
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has urged the newly appointed Director General of the Internal Security Bureau (ISB) of National Security Service (NSS), Gen Akec Tong Aleu, to improve the nation’s security framework.
During a swearing-in ceremony at State House in Juba on Thursday, Kiir urged Gen. Aleu to remain undistracted by external criticisms.
“The responsibility you have today is very heavy. You have to be careful and increase your capabilities. You have to deal with all the problems. We will not leave you alone in these difficult times. We will try to help you solve your problems in daily work,” Kiir said.
Minister of Defense and Veteran Affairs, Gen. Chol Thon Balok, echoed the President’s sentiments, highlighting the need to tackle pressing challenges within the security, political, and economic spheres.
“I am sure you will do it. I say may God be with you. In addition, we will support. We have challenges in security, in politics, in our economy, but with commitment, we hope to succeed,” Balok said.
Former Presidential Affairs Minister Nhial Deng Nhial outlined critical priorities for the new NSS chief, including the protection of the constitutional system, legislative leadership, and citizens’ lives and property.
“Your first task is to protect the state’s constitutional system. Second, you protect the state’s legislative leadership. Third, you protect the citizens’ lives and property. Fourth, you defend the country and the territorial integrity of the state. Focus on these things and don’t worry about what people say,” said Nhial.
Gen Akec Tong Aleu’s appointment follows the removal of long-serving NSS head Gen Akol Koor Kuc, who had led the agency since South Sudan’s independence in 2011.
Kuc has been reassigned as governor of Warrap State. The reasons for his removal were not disclosed in the presidential decree, which was broadcast on national television.