JUBA – South Sudan government on Thursday announced abruptly the indefinite postponement of the inauguration of the newly-appointed police chief Atem Marol Biar.
The ceremony, which was scheduled to take place today, was abruptly called off following an instruction from “senior government officials,” according to the ministry of interior’s media department.
The department provided no further clarification on the reason behind the postponement, first reported by The City Review, stating only that there was “no clear information” available.
This lack of transparency has left many wondering about the true motive behind the decision.
Biar was appointed on Tuesday night following the removal of General Majak Akec from the position, two days after rumors that a military coup against President Salva Kiir was unfolding.
Prior to his appointment, Biar was the director-general of the directorate of civil registry, nationality, passports and immigration which he was appointed to in 2021.
The postponement of Biar’s inauguration comes amid a time of heightened political tension in South Sudan.
Just two days before Biar’s appointment, rumors of a military coup against President Kiir began to circulate.
The rumors led to increased security measures in the capital, Juba.
The South Sudan government has denied that a coup attempt took place, but the rumors have added to the growing sense of unease in the country.
The indefinite postponement of Biar’s inauguration is likely to further fuel speculation about the stability of the government.