Breaking: President Kiir Removes Kuol Deng Kuol, Appoints Gregory Deng Kuac as Defence Undersecretary

May 7, 2025 | Juba, South Sudan

Reshuffle at the Ministry of Defence

President Salva Kiir Mayardit has relieved Kuol Deng Kuol from his role as Undersecretary for Defence in the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs. He has appointed Gregory Deng Kuac as his replacement, according to a presidential decree issued Wednesday.

Kuol Deng Kuol, a senior military figure, played a key role in defense administration. His dismissal comes at a time of growing calls for institutional reform and stronger oversight of South Sudan’s security framework.

Gregory Deng Kuac Returns to Top Defense Role

The new appointee, Gregory Deng Kuac, was previously the Deputy Director General for the General Intelligence Bureau within the National Security Services. He was removed from that role earlier, and no replacement had been named until this week.

His return to government in this new capacity is seen as a strategic shift, likely aimed at enhancing synergy between defense and intelligence operations at a national level.

Implications and Reactions

This high-level reshuffle adds to a growing list of recent leadership changes in South Sudan’s security and defense sectors. While the presidency has not provided reasons for Kuol’s dismissal, insiders point to a broader effort to consolidate President Kiir’s security policy heading into a pivotal political period.

Observers say the selection of Gregory Deng Kuac could bring a fresh perspective to the Ministry, given his background in intelligence and inter-agency coordination.

Further appointments and changes may be expected as the government seeks to streamline defense operations and reinforce civilian oversight ahead of national reforms and anticipated elections.

Breaking: Sudan Downs Drones Over Merowe as Air Defenses Remain on High Alert

May 7, 2025 | Sudan

Sudanese Military Intercepts Ongoing Drone Attacks Over Merowe

Sudanese Armed Forces have shot down several hostile drones over Merowe Air Base in what officials describe as an ongoing aerial threat. The incident occurred just an hour ago, marking a second wave of attacks following yesterday’s drone strike attempt on Flamingo Air Base in Port Sudan.

Military air defense systems in Merowe were activated swiftly, and residents reported hearing bursts of gunfire and drones falling from the sky. The situation remains fluid as interception efforts are actively ongoing.

مضادات مروي تتصدى… والعدو من مغستو حينقدااااا

مضادات مرووي صاحية وعينها مفتحة… ومستعدة لأي طارئ. يجيبوه أرضا. ساعدوهم بالدعوات

The above Arabic messages have gone viral on Sudanese social media, expressing widespread public support. Translated loosely: “Merowe’s air defenses are responding fiercely, the enemy will fall from where they came. Our systems are wide awake—ready for anything. Bring them down, support them with your prayers.”

Flamingo Base Drone Attack Confirmed on May 6

Yesterday, May 6, five drones were launched in a separate attack on Flamingo Air Base. All were successfully intercepted by ground-to-air missiles before reaching any military installations. No casualties or damage were reported, though military officials have since tightened aerial surveillance across key strategic sites.

The Flamingo incident raised alarms about possible foreign-backed or insurgent-group involvement, though no group has claimed responsibility to date.

Nationwide Defense Readiness Raised

As of this morning, Sudanese forces have placed multiple bases on high alert. Experts suggest the recent attacks reflect a shift in hostile tactics toward low-altitude drone warfare targeting key installations.

Public sentiment has rallied behind the military. Citizens across the country have taken to platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, sharing patriotic messages and offering prayers for the men and women in uniform defending Sudan’s sovereignty.

Government and Military Response

Officials have urged the public to stay calm but alert. Surveillance systems are scanning for additional drone activity, and a formal investigation is underway to determine the origin and payload of the intercepted devices.

The Ministry of Defense has not yet issued a full statement but emphasized that all necessary measures are in place to counter future incursions. Airspace over the affected areas remains restricted for civilian flights.

Conclusion

With ongoing drone interceptions over Merowe and recent attacks on Flamingo Base, Sudan is entering a new era of asymmetric threats. However, the military’s swift and effective response has reassured the public and reaffirmed national defense capabilities. As interception efforts continue, all eyes remain on Merowe’s skies and the resilience of Sudan’s air defense systems.