Akol Khor’s National Security Service (NSS) Requires Urgent Reforms and Education

By Emmanuel Malwal Makwach, Juba, South Sudan

Tuesday, 26 September 2023 (PW) — In a nation suffering from tumultuous times since its independence, South Sudan grapples with the challenges of a notorious institution: the National Security offices. As the sole journalist following the Parliament debates in the country, it has become evident that profound reforms in this sector are imperative for the nation’s progress, stability, and human rights. One cannot ignore the concerns surrounding the capabilities and efficiency of the current.

National Security officers often lack the knowledge and skills to fulfil their roles efficiently. It is disconcerting to witness Parliament engaging in debates over National Security bills when some officers struggle to comprehend their office’s fundamental responsibilities.

It is high time for drastic changes, and I firmly believe education should be the cornerstone of these reforms. Through comprehensive training programs and education, officers must be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to safeguard national security effectively. Investing in quality education will bolster professionalism, ethical conduct, and adherence to the rule of law within the National Security institutions.

By fostering a continuous learning and development culture, South Sudan can transform its security institutions into models of excellence for the region. Specialized courses on intelligence gathering, analysis, human rights, conflict resolution, and diplomacy must form the essential curriculum for these officers.

Furthermore, recruitment processes should be revamped to ensure only qualified candidates committed to upholding human rights and justice principles can join the National Security institutions. This will enable the nation to build a professional and competent workforce capable of addressing threats to national security without infringing upon the rights of its citizens.

To encourage transparency and accountability, oversight mechanisms should be strengthened, ensuring that any misconduct or abuse of power within the National Security institutions is promptly addressed. Whistleblower protection programs can play a pivotal role in encouraging officers to report any wrongdoings they witness

The road to reforming South Sudan’s National Security institutions will be challenging, but it is a vital step towards a more secure and prosperous future. As a responsible journalist, I will continuously highlight the urgent need for these reforms and advocate for positive change. The people of South Sudan deserve nothing less than a professional and accountable security sector that safeguards their rights and well-being.

Remember, South Sudan: Education, reforms, and diligence are the keys to unlocking the potential within your National Security institutions. Together, we can shape a brighter future for all.

A Story of Indiscipline and Nepotism: Setbacks in South Sudan’s National Security Institutions

In the tumultuous realm of South Sudan’s National Security institutions, indiscipline and ethnic favouritism have unfortunately become pervasive, hindering progress and undermining the foundations of professionalism and meritocracy. As the lone journalist documenting these troubling realities, I feel compelled to shed light on the injustices that plague the noble path of serving the nation.

It is disheartening to observe instances where high-ranking generals, driven by nepotism and personal interests, recommend their sons and daughters for positions within the National Security institutions. This practice bypasses the essential requirement of formal training, a fundamental step in cultivating competent officers.

While a few individuals manage to enter these institutions through their dedication and hard work, their presence is often rendered insignificant compared to the privileged few with family connections. This imbalance perpetuates a culture of inefficiency and undermines the very essence of disciplined officers required for the duties entrusted to them.

In prioritizing nepotism over qualifications, South Sudan inadvertently sidelines talented individuals who could contribute significantly to the nation’s security framework. These capable officers remain overshadowed by the nepotistic appointments, impeding the collective progress of the institutions as a whole.

To rectify this deplorable situation and build a capable and disciplined National Security force, it is crucial to dismantle the barriers of favouritism and establish a merit-based recruitment system. Such a system would ensure that individuals are selected based on their skills, knowledge, and dedication rather than their familial connections.

To improve South Sudan’s security landscape, stringent procedures must be implemented to guarantee transparency and fairness in recruitment. Formal training, education, and assessments that evaluate candidates objectively should be the pillars of these institutions. Only by adhering to these principles can the National Security institutions of South Sudan regain their integrity and effectively discharge their duties.

Simultaneously, thorough reforms must be instituted within the existing ranks, emphasizing professionalism, discipline, and adherence to codes of conduct. Regular training programs focused on cultivating leadership skills, ethical decision-making, and effective communication would instil a culture of discipline among the officers.

Furthermore, an independent oversight mechanism should ensure accountability and address any indiscipline, abuse of power, or misconduct within the National Security institutions. Whistleblower protection programs can empower individuals to come forward and expose violations without fear of reprisal.

By confronting the challenges of indiscipline and nepotism, South Sudan can pave the way for a more vital and professional National Security force. Such an institution will command respect, effectively protect the nation’s interests, and restore faith in the principles of justice and equality. I hope these reforms will bring about the transformation South Sudan desperately needs.

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