Fury as Gen. Akol Koor snubs welcomers at Juba airport

JUBA – Hundreds of supporters were left fuming on Wednesday afternoon after South Sudan’s former head of the National Security Service’s (NSS) Internal Security Bureau (ISB), General Akol Koor, snubbed them upon arrival from the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Gen. Akol, who was recently dismissed by President Salva Kiir Mayardit and appointed as the new governor of his home state of Warrap, had been met at Juba International Airport by a large crowd eager to welcome him home.

However, the powerful security official, known for his fearsome reputation, refused to engage with his supporters, bypassing the traditional welcome ceremony and proceeding directly to his car without even raising his hands.

Dressed in a dark blue suit and a red tie, Gen. Akol declined to wear a traditional cloth known as a “laweh,” which was offered to him by an unidentified woman. His abrupt departure sparked anger and disappointment among the crowd, who had gathered early in the morning to show their support.

Speaking to Sudans Post after the incident, several bystanders expressed their frustration and dismay. One supporter, who identified himself as Lual, said he had canceled a community event in Juba to be part of the welcome.

“This is really a very stupid behavior.  these people came in the morning from around 8:00 AM to make sure that someone gets a place to stand. Now you arrive from Dubai and bypass the hundreds of people, the women and the children who have come to welcome you and who have supported you? This is a stupid idea,” Lual said.

Another bystander said he would never again participate in welcoming any political leader, citing the “condemnable” actions of South Sudanese officials against the people. “It’s an expression that people are not considered because they don’t have positions,” he said.

Gen. Akol’s removal from his powerful position last week had sparked concerns of renewed violence in Juba. The security official, who had held the post since South Sudan’s independence in 2011, was feared by many. His departure was seen as a significant shift in the country’s political landscape.

Another bystander said “Gen. Akol’s behavior is a stark contrast to the warm welcome he received when he was appointed as governor. It’s a clear sign that he’s still clinging to his old ways and hasn’t fully embraced his new role.”

He added that the “incident highlights the deep divisions within South Sudan’s political elite. It’s a reminder that despite the peace agreement, tensions remain high, and the country is still fragile.”

A human rights activist who refused to be named for fear of reprisal criticized Gen. Akol’s actions, saying, “Gen. Akol’s disregard for his supporters is a symptom of a larger problem in South Sudan: the lack of accountability for those in power. It’s time for the government to take action and address the culture of impunity.”

A member of the Warrap State government expressed disappointment with Gen. Akol’s behavior, saying, “We had hoped that he would bring a new era of leadership to our state. However, this incident has raised concerns about his suitability for the role.”

A representative of the opposition called for a more democratic system in South Sudan, stating, “Gen. Akol’s actions are a reminder of the dangers of one-man rule. It’s time for South Sudan to move towards a more democratic system that respects the rights of all citizens.”

A local religious leader urged Gen. Akol to reflect on his actions and apologize to the people of South Sudan, saying, “We believe that forgiveness and reconciliation are essential for our country’s future.”