JUBA, Nov. 22, 2024—The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) assured South Sudanese citizens and foreign nationals of their safety following a gunfire exchange Thursday evening in Juba. The clashes, lasting over an hour, occurred near the Nimule Resort Hotel in the Thongping neighborhood, where former intelligence chief Gen. Akol Koor Kuc resides.

SSPDF Spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang confirmed the incident stemmed from tensions between two military groups stationed at Kuc’s residence. “The situation is now generally calm. I would like to reassure South Sudanese citizens, foreign nationals, and diplomats that their safety and property are secure,” Koang told the media . An investigation into the confrontation is underway.

The altercation follows Kuc’s abrupt dismissal by President Salva Kiir in October. Tensions reportedly escalated after additional security forces were deployed to enforce changes to Kuc’s security detail, reducing his protective force. “There are now two layers of security at his residence—one inside for his protection, and another outside,” Koang explained, noting ongoing efforts to clarify the exact cause of the violence.

Analysts link Kuc’s removal to an internal power struggle within South Sudan’s transitional government. His dismissal came as President Kiir seeks to consolidate control amid heightened political uncertainty and the postponement of national elections, originally slated for December.