Heavy Gunfire Erupts Near Juba Airport Amid Political Tensions
On the evening of November 21, 2024, heavy gunfire was reported near Juba airport in South Sudan, coinciding with an attempted arrest of former intelligence chief Akol Kur. Local sources indicated that the shooting began around 7 p.m. local time and continued for approximately one hour. The incident has raised concerns among residents and observers, given the backdrop of political instability in the region.
The gunfire was heard near a military facility, prompting an army spokesman to confirm that he was working to ascertain the situation. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions within South Sudan's transitional government, which has been marked by power struggles between factions loyal to President Salva Kiir Mayardit and First Deputy Riek Machar. Although a civil war that lasted from 2013 to 2018 resulted in significant loss of life, a fragile peace has been maintained since a peace agreement was signed in 2018. However, clashes over power-sharing arrangements continue to pose a threat to stability.
The recent unrest follows the dismissal of Akol Kur Kok, who was removed from his position as head of the internal security service in early October. His replacement by a close ally of President Kiir has further exacerbated tensions, especially after the transitional government announced a second postponement of national elections originally scheduled for December. Diplomats and analysts have noted that the political landscape remains volatile, with the potential for further conflict if power-sharing disputes are not resolved.
