Defense Minister Gen. Chol Thon Balok Supports New NSS Director General in South Sudan 's Security Reforms

*By John Kusolo*

Juba, South Sudan – Amid heightened security challenges and a pivotal leadership transition in South Sudan's National Security Service (NSS), Defense and Veteran Affairs Minister Gen. Chol Thon Balok has voiced his strong support for newly appointed Director General of the NSS, Gen. Akec Tong Aleu. The Defense Minister’s endorsement came at a formal swearing-in ceremony at State House in Juba last month, where President Salva Kiir Mayardit presided over the appointment of Gen. Akec Tong Aleu, urging him to tackle the nation’s pressing security and economic issues with renewed vigor.

During the ceremony, Defense Minister Balok addressed the extensive challenges that the NSS faces in securing a nation still grappling with political volatility, economic instability, and regional unrest. His message of solidarity highlighted the government's commitment to supporting Gen. Aleu as he assumes his role in safeguarding South Sudan’s national interests and constitutional integrity.

“I am sure you will do it. I say may God be with you,” stated Gen. Balok. “We have challenges in security, in politics, in our economy, but with commitment, we hope to succeed.” His words conveyed a tone of optimism, encouraging the new security chief to bring stability and resilience to the nation’s security apparatus.

*A Pivotal Moment in South Sudan’s Security Landscape*

The appointment of Gen. Aleu to the NSS marks a significant turning point in South Sudan’s security sector. His predecessor, Gen. Akol Koor Kuc, served as head of the NSS since the country's independence in 2011, overseeing operations through both peaceful periods and the civil war that fractured the nation. While President Kiir did not elaborate on the reasons for Gen. Kuc’s removal, his reassignment as governor of Warrap—Kiir’s home state—indicates a strategic shift within the government, potentially hinting at internal power dynamics within the administration.

Analysts interpret Gen. Kuc’s transfer as a recalibration within President Kiir’s inner circle, with some speculating that it reflects a measured effort to balance security leadership across the country while preparing for a smooth succession as Kiir’s administration evolves. Gen. Kuc, despite his tenure at the NSS, will now focus on stabilizing the historically restive Warrap state, where tribal conflicts and local grievances continue to pose challenges.

*Gen. Balok’s Vision for Strengthening Security and Governance*

As the Minister of Defense, Gen. Balok is acutely aware of the complexities involved in South Sudan’s multifaceted security needs. His support for Gen. Aleu goes beyond mere encouragement; it signifies a broader commitment to realigning the NSS’s operations with the principles of constitutional protection, political stability, and economic resilience. Gen. Balok underscored that the security sector must work in tandem with political and economic reforms to ensure that South Sudan can transcend its ongoing challenges.

He acknowledged the economic struggles impacting the defense sector’s ability to fully implement its programs, citing resource limitations as one of the main obstacles to advancing South Sudan’s security infrastructure. “We recognize the importance of commitment to address these barriers,” Balok said, expressing hope that Gen. Aleu’s experience will be instrumental in revitalizing the NSS.

*Priorities for the New NSS Leadership*

In taking the helm of the NSS, Gen. Aleu is tasked with a broad mandate to strengthen state institutions, uphold the rule of law, and protect both citizens and state infrastructure. He inherits a security apparatus shaped by years of civil strife and intense scrutiny for its handling of domestic conflicts and threats. To achieve these goals, Gen. Aleu will need to address longstanding issues related to internal security and cross-border threats while managing both national expectations and external pressures.

Former Presidential Affairs Minister Nhial Deng Nhial echoed the expectations placed upon Gen. Aleu, emphasizing the importance of defending South Sudan’s constitutional order and protecting the state’s leadership. “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,” stated Nhial, summarizing the NSS’s core responsibilities under Gen. Aleu’s leadership.

*Government Collaboration for Stability and Progress*

The government’s cohesive support for Gen. Aleu, symbolized by the remarks from both Gen. Balok and former Minister Nhial, reflects a unified front aimed at consolidating the NSS’s role in national security. By working closely with the Defense Ministry and other governmental branches, Gen. Aleu is expected to implement measures to ensure not only the safety of South Sudan’s citizens but also the country’s territorial integrity.

President Kiir's comments during the swearing-in emphasized that Gen. Aleu is not alone in his mission. “The responsibility you have today is very heavy,” Kiir said, reiterating the complexity of the role. “We will try to help you solve your problems in daily work.” This sentiment of mutual support across government ministries highlights the collaborative approach that the administration hopes to cultivate in the face of South Sudan’s adversities.

*Looking Ahead: Hope for Security Reform and National Unity*

Gen. Balok’s commitment to the new NSS leadership is more than a symbolic endorsement. It is a strategic alignment that seeks to integrate the NSS’s work within the broader framework of South Sudan’s socio-political landscape. Balok’s vision for a coordinated response to the country’s challenges serves as a foundation for long-term stability and progress. By fostering collaboration among government ministries and strengthening South Sudan’s national defense framework, Gen. Balok and his colleagues aim to support Gen. Aleu’s efforts to establish a more resilient and prosperous South Sudan.

In this crucial period of transition, the South Sudanese government has laid a solid foundation of support for Gen. Aleu, whose leadership will likely determine the NSS’s role in shaping the country’s future. With the backing of the Defense Ministry and the confidence of South Sudan’s highest-ranking officials, Gen. Aleu’s tenure has the potential to transform the NSS and advance South Sudan toward lasting peace, security, and unity.